“Halloween Kills,” the next entry in the trilogy of the “Halloween” movies, follows Laurie, Karen and Allyson Strode, who are dealing with the aftermath of what was believed to be a murder of the deranged serial killer, Michael Myers. However, they soon learn Michael has survived and is looking for bloodshed and revenge on the town of Haddonfield, Illinois. The three generations of Strodes part ways and try to defeat Michael once and for all.
The 1978 original film version of “Halloween” has become a cult classic for horror movie fans all over the world. The simplicity and creepiness of the masked serial killer are terrifying to viewers.
The iconic Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays Laurie Strode, takes a step back in this film due to her significant injury in the previous film. The film centers on Laurie’s daughter, Karen, played by Judy Greer, and granddaughter, Allyson, played by Andi Matichak, who have different views on how to get rid of Michael.
Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, goes to find Michael Myers.
Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
Both Karen and Allyson do an amazing job holding their own in this gruesome film. They do a great job of keeping up the Strode legacy that was brought in the 1978 film and onward, working their hardest to get rid of Michael.
One of the ways this is shown is with the fantastic cinematography. The shots really flow together as they follow the fight against Michael’s revenge on the town.
Karen Strode, played by Judy Greer, holds up the Michael Myers mask.
Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
However, this film very much feels like a filler movie.
The 2018 reboot of “Halloween” focused on character development, as it had the job of bringing back the characters and having Michael escape from prison 40 years later. “Halloween Kills” brings up the creepiness and scariness and continues on with these characters dealing with the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma Michael has caused.
Another significant part of this film is the nostalgia. This film brings in a decent amount of returning characters from the original to help Laurie and the gang kill Michael. One of the most interesting additions is Anthony Michael Hall as Tommy Doyle, who is a big part of the new installment.
Tommy Doyle, played by Anthony Michael Hall, prepares to attack Michael Myers.
Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
The bulk of this film, however, is Michael brutally killing people to the point where you wonder if there are even any more citizens left in Haddonfield. It gets to the point where it feels like a normal slasher film. What made the original so good was the simplicity and stalker aspect. This film focuses on blood and guts rather than the inhuman personality Michael has.
The main problem of “Halloween Kills” is its ending, though there will be no spoilers. The conclusion is very controversial across fans and will make or break the film for some people. It emphasizes the fact that this is a filler film in the trilogy, leading each and every person to have a different reaction to the movie and its ending.
Though “Halloween Kills” has a decent amount of issues, its positive characteristics still make it a movie worth watching.
And while it may be a filler film, it also shows that these new movies are all very much connected. With great performances from the cast and solid scares, “Halloween Kills” is a solid addition to the famous franchise. Look out for “Halloween Ends,” which is coming to theaters in October 2022.
