Gremlins 2

The strangeness of a sequel that turns from loosely horror comedy to fullblown comedy with dark elements. This movie is funnier and more bombastic than the first one in many areas, but does indeed crack under the weight of its boldness and attempts to outdo the first. Let's tune into Gremlins 2!

PLOT: Bizarre, but easy to explain.

Strangely enough, while the first one feels like it's hitting old classics in a new way. This one feels as though it's hitting new plot beats in a classic way. The plot is very strange and bounces around from beat to beat with no real sense or reason. But, it is very engaging and easy to explain. What could've been a really safe sequel ends up being even more engaging and experimental than the 1st.

CHARACTERS: Still great, but missing something.

With the 1st having loveable and endearing characters, this one doesn't bother trying to change out for new protagonists. Most of the old favorites return in the new setting, adding a sprinkling of new characters, from sexy boss to a Donald Trump standin to freaking Hulk Hogan in a bizarre cameo at the height of his career. It's still great in terms of character work and even avoids some of the biggest cliches in the game, something I always appreciate.

SHOTS: More iconic.

This one definitely feels more cinematic, probably due to the improvements in Gremlin technology. The sets are also bigger, more impressive, and feature early uses of CGI that strangely enough enhance the experience. Although it can get a bit cluttered at times, great uses of digital and practical effects make the set design and overall cinematography stand out in a smorgus board of forgettable popcorn flicks.

SOUND: Definitely the standout.

This movie vastly improves on sound design and music compared to the 1st. While it wasn't bad, this one has more chaotic uses of music and feels as though the sound design stands out more here. It's particularly well-done with the usage of Tony Randall as Smart Gremlin being hilarious due to the quality of the dub. I very much love the use of Greta Gremlin's vocals at the end of the movie in a scene that basically just speaks for itself. I won't spoil the joke, but it is very funny.

WRITING: This reminds me of the time I said I loved the first one...

Where the first film is great at being a goofy horror comedy, this movie leans into being more darkly humorous with a few horror elements thrown in. The writing still feels strong and didn't falter despite several years in-between sequels. It's really well-done and avoid cliches of the time, especially in the romance between the two leads. They feel like genuine people.

CONS: A bit messy.

The plot of this movie gets real messy real quick as the writing is still sharp but filled with more homages and nods to other films rather than being its own movie. This does make it a bit gratuitous at times. But, I don't mind it terrifically because most of the nods are still hilarious.

LITTLE THINGS:

This film improves massively upon the animatronics of the original, showing off new Gizmo movements as much as possible. This film really does make the gremlins feel alive and like their own characters. Good stuff! I'll also give additional points to the hilarity of Greta Gremlin. Just such a bizarre inclusion that ends up being the most hilarious twist of the movie.

VERDICT:

In a very odd verdict indeed, I considered this movie superior to the first. I rarely enjoy sequels more than the former unless it's Empire Strikes Back. But, this movie was more engaging, more entertaining, and more darkly humorous. I will have the controversial thought of this being a better movie overall, but watch it yourself and decide!

SCORE: 9/10