Review: Sinister 2 (2015)

When it comes to horror sequels, expectations are a tricky beast. Released in 2015, Sinister 2 had the daunting task of following the well-received original that left audiences with a lingering sense of dread. Scott Derrickson's Sinister (2012) set a high bar with its unique blend of supernatural horror and true-crime elements. The sequel, directed by Ciarán Foy, attempts to expand on the eerie lore established by its predecessor. While it offers some chilling moments, it ultimately struggles to capture the unsettling atmosphere that made the first film a standout.

Plot Summary

Sinister 2 picks up not long after the events of the first film. This time, the narrative shifts focus to a new family in peril. Courtney Collins, played by Shannyn Sossamon, is a mother on the run from an abusive relationship. She seeks refuge in a rundown rural house with her twin sons, Dylan and Zach. Unbeknownst to her, the house harbors a sinister presence tied to the malevolent spirit of Bughuul, who has a penchant for luring children into darkness. As the story unfolds, one of the twins begins to experience disturbing visions and is drawn into Bughuul's web, setting off a chain of terrifying events.

Performances

Shannyn Sossamon takes on the role of the protective mother, Courtney, delivering a performance grounded in maternal instinct. She exudes a certain vulnerability that adds depth to her character, though at times the script limits her emotional range. The real spotlight, however, falls on the twins, played by real-life brothers Robert and Dartanian Sloan. Robert Sloan, in particular, shines as Dylan, embodying the complexity of a child torn between innocence and the dark influence of Bughuul.

James Ransone reprises his role from the first film as Ex-Deputy So & So (yes, that’s his name). His character, now a private investigator, provides a link to the original film and serves as the audience's anchor amidst the supernatural chaos. Ransone brings a touch of humor and humanity to the story, balancing the film's darker elements.

Direction and Craft

Ciarán Foy steps into the director's chair for Sinister 2, and his approach is noticeably different from Derrickson’s. While Derrickson's film was celebrated for its slow-burn suspense and atmospheric tension, Foy opts for a more direct style, with mixed results. The film's pacing is uneven, occasionally rushing through scenes that could benefit from more build-up. That said, Foy excels in creating a few genuinely creepy moments, particularly through the use of Bughuul's disturbing home movies, which remain a highlight from the first film.

The film's visual style maintains the gritty aesthetic of the original, with shadowy lighting and unsettling set design that effectively contribute to the horror atmosphere. However, the scares often feel telegraphed, lacking the subtlety that horror aficionados might crave. The screenplay, co-written by Scott Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill, attempts to weave in new mythology but ends up overcomplicating the story without significant payoff.

The sound design deserves a mention for its contribution to the film’s eerie vibe. The unsettling score by composer Tomandandy underscores the film’s most intense scenes, although it sometimes competes too heavily with the dialogue, detracting from the overall experience.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, Sinister 2 may not be a must-have, but it does hold value if you're aiming to complete a horror franchise set. The film's Blu-ray release is the best format to own, featuring crisp visuals that enhance the eerie atmosphere and a selection of special features that dig into into the making of the film. While it's not rare, its presence in a collection can round out the horror section for those who appreciate the genre in all its forms.

Ultimately, Sinister 2 is for those who enjoy building comprehensive horror collections, even if it doesn't shine as brightly as its predecessor. With a few chilling sequences and a continuation of the Bughuul mythos, it offers enough to interest fans of the original, if approached with tempered expectations.

Star Rating: 2.5 out of 5