Review of V/H/S/2 (2013) by Jacob G — 29 Oct 2013

The first V/H/S anthology was brilliant. Despite some variance in quality between the stories, it was framed so perfectly that it didn't really matter much.

The idea of a 2nd V/H/S was exciting, but you know what they say about sequels: be careful what you wish for. It might suck.

Luckily V/H/S/2 doesn't suck, although lacks that minty-fresh aftertaste that the original does.

1. You're basically looking at more of the same. In other words, not-sure-whats-coming-next found footage horror.

2. The four main stories would stand alone well as a short film, and the aura is heightened by being together in the same package.

3. It peaks early though, with the best story also being the first story. It taps into that technological fear that is hard to deny. If you've got the slightest belief in ghosts/demons then it will make you go, "I know it's fiction, but, it might actually happen.".

4. The second story is, disappointingly, a zombie story. This is the story that really drags the collection as a whole down. I'm just so over zombies--it's place in pop culture has gone on for too many years. Still, it's a relatively original take on the genre. That only satisfies the critical part of the viewing, not the enjoyment part.

5. With a better ending, the third story had a chance to be the best of all of them. Excellent environment, neat shots, the whole package. But then... well. I won't ruin it; you'll see why I couldn't give it full points. But unlike the second story, I did really enjoy it.

6. The last story graciously brought in a fresh type of antagonist. That and the pubescent sexuality made it entertaining, albeit a bit predictable. But it was a good way to close out the set.

7. The frame story tries, perhaps, to be a bit too cute for its own good, although you probably won't see the twist coming. You'll expect something intense and it kind of delivers. Though it's definitely more enjoyable from that, "They did what!?" type perspective.