Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead (2014) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead (Død Snø 2: Red vs. Dead) is a Norwegian horror-comedy film directed by Tommy Wirkola. It serves as the sequel to the 2009 cult hit Dead Snow, continuing the blend of zombie horror and dark humor that made the original film a standout. This installment takes the gore, comedy, and undead action to new levels, with a story that ups the ante in every way.
This review will delve into the plot, performances, and thematic elements of Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead, and provide information on where you can stream or rent the film online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead picks up right where the first film left off. The movie follows Martin (played by Vegar Hoel), the sole survivor of the previous zombie outbreak, who finds himself grappling with the aftermath of the events in the snow-covered mountains. After a gruesome encounter, Martin ends up with a zombie arm grafted onto him, which surprisingly grants him extraordinary powers.
The film follows Martin’s efforts to use his newfound abilities to combat a new wave of undead horror. The Nazi zombies, led by the nefarious Colonel Herzog (played by Ørjan Gamst), are back and more dangerous than ever. Martin joins forces with a group of zombie-fighting misfits, including a nerdy fan of zombie movies and a local goth, to take on the undead army and prevent Herzog’s plans for global domination.
As Martin and his new allies battle the undead, the film mixes outrageous gore, slapstick comedy, and over-the-top action sequences. The zombies are not just a threat but a source of darkly comedic moments, and the film delivers a blend of horror and humor that both parodies and pays homage to the genre.
A Hilarious and Gory Sequel
Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead excels in delivering a fun, fast-paced experience that combines horror with dark comedy. The film’s over-the-top gore and inventive zombie action scenes are a highlight, with plenty of blood, guts, and grotesque humor. The practical effects and makeup are impressive, adding to the film’s distinctive and outrageous visual style.
Tommy Wirkola’s direction ensures that the film remains engaging and entertaining throughout, balancing the horror elements with humor and action. The film’s pacing is brisk, with a series of wild set pieces and comedic moments that keep the audience entertained.
The sequel also pays homage to zombie film conventions and incorporates references to other horror and action movies, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for fans of the genre.
Performances: Embracing the Absurd
The performances in Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead are designed to embrace the film’s absurdity and comedic tone:
- Vegar Hoel returns as Martin, delivering a performance that balances the character’s physical comedy with emotional moments. Hoel effectively captures Martin’s transition from a hapless survivor to a zombie-fighting hero.
- Ørjan Gamst reprises his role as Colonel Herzog, bringing an exaggerated and menacing presence to the character. His portrayal of the undead leader adds to the film’s blend of horror and comedy.
- Stig Frode Henriksen and Martin Starr play supporting roles as members of Martin’s zombie-fighting team. Their performances contribute to the film’s humor and action, with Henriksen’s nerdy enthusiasm and Starr’s deadpan delivery providing comic relief.
Themes: Survival, Heroism, and Parody
Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead explores themes of survival and heroism within the context of a zombie apocalypse. Martin’s journey from a survivor to a hero reflects the film’s focus on overcoming adversity and finding strength in unlikely circumstances.
The film also serves as a parody of zombie and horror movie tropes, with its exaggerated gore, humor, and references to other films in the genre. By embracing and subverting these conventions, Dead Snow 2 delivers a self-aware and entertaining take on the zombie genre.
Critical Reception
Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead received positive reviews from critics and audiences, with many praising its blend of humor, gore, and inventive action. The film holds a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers highlighting its energetic and entertaining approach to the zombie genre.
Critics appreciated the film’s commitment to its outrageous concept and its ability to balance horror with comedy. The practical effects and inventive set pieces were also noted as highlights of the film.
Some reviewers mentioned that the film’s over-the-top nature might not appeal to all viewers, particularly those who are not fans of extreme gore or dark humor. However, for fans of the genre, Dead Snow 2 is a successful and entertaining sequel.
Where to Watch Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead Online in America
If you’re interested in watching Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead, there are several options for streaming and rental in the U.S. Here’s where you can find the film:
Streaming Services
- Shudder: Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead is available for streaming on Shudder, a service dedicated to horror films and series. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their membership.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead for $3.99 or purchase it for $9.99. The film is available in SD and HD formats.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is available for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $9.99. It can be streamed on Android devices, Chromecast, and other compatible devices.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, you can rent Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead for $3.99 or buy it for $9.99. The film is accessible on all Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV.
- Vudu: Vudu offers the film for rental at $3.99 and for purchase at $9.99. It supports streaming on various devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles.
- YouTube Movies: Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead is available for rent on YouTube Movies for $3.99 or for purchase at $9.99. You can watch it on any device that supports YouTube.
Conclusion: Should You Watch Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead?
Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead is a highly entertaining sequel that delivers on its promise of gory, humorous zombie action. With its blend of outrageous humor, inventive zombie sequences, and a fun-loving approach to the genre, the film offers an engaging and enjoyable experience for fans of horror comedies.
While its extreme gore and dark humor might not be for everyone, it’s a must-watch for those who appreciate a good mix of laughs and scares. With several streaming and rental options available, Dead Snow 2 is easy to access and worth checking out for a wild ride in the world of zombie horror.
