FRIGHT FEST REVIEW: SCREAM 2

"There are certain rules that one must abide by in order to create a successful sequel. Number one: the body count is always bigger. Number two: the death scenes are always much more elaborate - more blood, more gore - *carnage candy*. And number three: never, ever, under any circumstances, assume the killer is dead. "

Scream 2 is the superb sequel that far outshines its predecessor. True, this is an increasingly rare thing in Hollywood but Scream 2 really does take the cake. It's smarter, funnier, more serious, the returning characters have been gievn added depth, and the big finale is to DIE for (Pun intended).

Scream 2 takes place exactly one year after Scream. It starts out at a theatre showing a sneek peek at "Stab!", The movie based off the book Gale Weathers wrote after the incidents of the first film. It doesn't take long before it is revealed that there is now a copycat killer on the loose and 2 moviegoers are given terrific death scenes in the theatre, one dies right in front of the movie screen as the bemused and shocked crowd watches. It's now up to Sidney, Randy, Gale, and Dewey to find the killer and do whatever it takes to survive this second killer outing.

All of the original cast is back. Jamie Kennedy puts on another inspired performance as determined survivor of the first film Randy. He still knows all the horror movie rules (and all the rules of sequels as well) and is the one who guides the rest of the gang along on their adventure. David Arquette puts on a decidedly different performance than he did in the first one as the rookie cop Dewey. In this one he seems to be more experienced and determined, he makes it clear that this time he won't let the killer get the upper hand. Throughout the film he walks with a limp, his stab wound he received in the first film apparently paralyzing half of his body (poor Dewey). Liev Schrieber also returns as Cotton Weary, the wrongly accused assailant in the first film. In Scream 2 he is given a chance to show that he is indeed a good guy, despite what everybody else may think.

Amang the newcomers are the young Jerry O'Connel as Boyfriend Derek who, despite being the PERFECT guy, is immeadietly targeted as a strong suspect. He does perfect in this role. He's charming, funny, and extremely likeable as the somewhat aloof and niave Derek. It is obvious that he cares for Sidney and would do anything to protect her. Among his highlights is a song and dance he performs in a lunchroom of Sidney. Another fun newcomer is Duane Martin as the toiken black dude. He is the new camera man for Gale and is smart enough to panic when the bodies start to pile up, aware that the black guy never lasts very long. There's also a great cameo for Sarah Michelle Gellar as Sorority Gal Cici. Even though she isn't much to do it is still fun to see her here.

Whereas the finale of the first film took place at a party, the finale of Scream 2 takes place in the inspired setting of a theatre (Not a movie theatre, a stage). The final twist is pretty shocking, throwing me for a complete loop, and the great thing is it kind of makes sense. When Sidney finally turns the tables on her would-be killer is when the real fun begins, using the props, lighting fixtures, and sound effects in the theatre to thoroughly freak out her attacker.

With deeper characters, more suspense, and a smarter script Scream 2 is far superior to its somewhat lackluster predecessor. I'm glad you proved me wrong on this one Wes, I really am, Scream 2 is one of my all time favorite horror films. Give it a try and you'll be sure to see why (yes, I meant for that to rhyme).

4/5 Stars