Review of Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981) by Archibald T — 22 Mar 2011

Alice had survived the horror that was Camp Crystal Lake. It haunts her still. The opening of the film is set in a flashback, taking you back to the first film and give you a reminder that Jason was still out there. That's where we begin in this sequel.

The film presents the same basic qualities that the first film had with the exception of Camp Blood. Camp Blood isn't the setting. Instead we're at a different camp. One that so happens to be close by to Camp Blood. The inhabitants of this camp are one of counselors who are in training. They're also in heat and want to bang each other any chance they get. A classic stereotypical slasher scenario of course.

However, if I had to choose between the original and it's sequel I think I'd go with this one. It builds, just like the original did, with a body count until we're left with one survive who has to, well, survive. The last act of the film still creeps me out with Amy Steel's character being chased by Jason (before his hockey mask look, he dawned a pillowcase over his head. Still effective to this day). I love the camera work that Steve Miner was showcasing in that chase scene. Jason would pop up anywhere she was and the timing of it was so damn perfect that it literally gives me the chills to this day. Not to mention the final scare of him crashing through the window to grab her. Much more effective, I think, than the original with the little boy coming out of the water to grab Alice.

Overall, it's a superior sequel with some great camera. Also the widescreen format makes this film look beautiful!