Review: The Woman in Black 2 (2014)

When you talk about horror films, atmosphere is often half the battle. The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death, released in 2014, attempts to capture and continue the chilling essence of its predecessor, The Woman in Black. Set decades after the first film, it revisits the eerie Eel Marsh House, this time during the tumultuous backdrop of World War II. As a collector, this film might catch your eye because it carries the legacy of a franchise known for its spine-tingling ambiance. But does it live up to the memorable original?

Plot Summary

The film transports us to the 1940s, where London is under siege by air raids. Seeking refuge, a group of schoolchildren and their caretakers find themselves evacuated to the remote English countryside, settling in the seemingly abandoned Eel Marsh House. It doesn’t take long for the house's sinister secrets to reveal themselves, as the group becomes the target of the malevolent spirit known as the Woman in Black. The plot thickens with each eerie occurrence, but rest assured, I’ll keep the spoilers at bay.

Performances

The cast of The Woman in Black 2 delivers performances that range from solid to quite stirring, given the constraints of a horror sequel. Phoebe Fox, in the role of the compassionate and determined teacher Eve Parkins, manages to balance fear and fortitude, creating a character you can root for. Her portrayal is nuanced, bringing depth to a role that could have easily slipped into cliché territory. Jeremy Irvine, playing the dashing RAF pilot Harry Burnstow, adds a touch of romance and heroism to the mix, though his character sometimes feels underdeveloped.

Helen McCrory, as the stern headmistress Jean Hogg, brings gravitas and a sense of authority that anchors the film’s more suspenseful moments. The child actors, often a hit or miss in horror films, deliver commendably. They manage to convey an authentic sense of dread without overplaying their roles, which is no small feat.

Direction and Craft

Tom Harper, stepping into the director’s chair for this sequel, had quite the task in maintaining the legacy of the first film's director, James Watkins. Harper does succeed in creating a foreboding atmosphere. The cinematography is moody, with the bleak English countryside serving as a fitting backdrop that enhances the film’s tension. Shadows play a crucial role, and Harper uses them to keep viewers on edge, never quite sure what's lurking just out of sight.

The production design deserves a nod for its meticulous attention to detail. Eel Marsh House is as much a character in this film as the actors themselves, with its creaky floors and memorable corridors. The film's sound design complements the visuals effectively, relying on subtlety and the power of suggestion to create tension rather than resorting to cheap jump scares.

However, the film does suffer from pacing issues. There are moments where the plot feels stretched, and the tension wanes as a result. While the original film thrived on a slow build-up of dread, this sequel occasionally meanders, losing its narrative momentum.

Collector's Verdict

For the collectors out there, The Woman in Black 2 holds a certain allure, especially if you enjoyed the first film. While it may not match the original's intensity, it offers a chilling atmosphere and strong performances that make it worth owning. The best format to seek out for this film is Blu-ray, which allows you to appreciate the film's atmospheric visuals and sound design to their fullest.

In terms of rarity, The Woman in Black 2 is fairly common, so it shouldn't be too difficult to find a copy for your collection. It's a worthwhile addition for horror enthusiasts who appreciate films that focus on mood and setting over gore and shock.

Star Rating: 3 out of 5

Overall, The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death is a respectable entry in the horror genre. It may not reach the heights of its predecessor, but it stands on its own as a chilling exploration of haunted pasts and wartime fears. If you find yourself drawn to atmospheric horror, this film will be a solid addition to your collection. Just remember to keep the lights on and the volume up to fully immerse yourself in its eerie world.