From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money (1999) Movie Review
Introduction
“From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money,” released in 1999, is the direct-to-video sequel to the 1996 cult classic “From Dusk Till Dawn.” Directed by Scott Spiegel, the film follows a different storyline and set of characters while retaining the original’s blend of horror and action. Unlike the original, which starred George Clooney and Quentin Tarantino, this sequel features a new cast, including Robert Patrick, Bo Hopkins, and Maria Conchita Alonso. This review will explore the plot, characters, reception, and provide information on where to stream or purchase “From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film shifts focus from the original’s bank-robbing vampires to a new set of criminals and supernatural elements. The story centers on a group of bank robbers led by the cunning and ruthless Michael (Robert Patrick), who plans to use the stolen money to escape to Mexico. However, their plans go awry when they find themselves entangled with a group of vampires.
The robbers stumble upon a vampire nest hidden in a remote Texas location, and soon, their heist turns into a battle for survival as they are pursued by the undead creatures. The conflict escalates as the robbers must navigate their way through the vampire threat while dealing with their own interpersonal conflicts.
The film combines action, crime elements, and vampire horror, attempting to replicate the original’s genre-blending style.
Characters and Cast
- Michael (Robert Patrick): The leader of the bank robbers, who is both charismatic and ruthless. Patrick’s performance brings a strong presence to the role.
- Buck (Bo Hopkins): A member of the criminal gang who becomes entangled in the vampire chaos. Hopkins’s portrayal adds a layer of tension and grit to the film.
- Dee (Maria Conchita Alonso): A key character who plays a crucial role in the group’s attempts to survive the vampire attack.
- Carlos (Raymond Cruz): Another member of the gang, who contributes to the film’s dynamic as the group confronts the vampire threat.
Reception and Critique
“From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money” received mixed to negative reviews from critics and fans. While it attempted to capture the spirit of the original, it faced several criticisms.
Positive Aspects
- Robert Patrick’s Performance: Patrick’s performance as the lead character was generally praised for its intensity and charisma, contributing to the film’s appeal.
- Action and Horror Blend: The film’s mix of action and horror elements was noted as a successful attempt to maintain the genre-blending style of the original.
Negative Aspects
- Comparison to Original: The sequel was widely criticized for not living up to the high standards set by the original “From Dusk Till Dawn.” Many felt that it lacked the same level of originality and impact.
- Plot and Script: The storyline and dialogue were often described as formulaic and less engaging, with some critics finding the plot to be predictable and lacking depth.
- Production Quality: As a direct-to-video release, the film’s production values were considered lower than those of major theatrical releases, impacting the overall viewing experience.
Where to Watch “From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money” in the USA
For those interested in watching “From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money,” several streaming services and platforms offer the film:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Check the current catalog for availability.
- Hulu: “From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money” might be available on Hulu. Verify current availability in their catalog.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: In addition to streaming, you can rent or purchase the film on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchase prices vary from $7.99 to $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play. Rental prices usually start at $2.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
- iTunes: “From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money” is available for rent or purchase on iTunes. Rental prices are around $3.99, and purchase prices are approximately $9.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film is Vudu. Rental costs are typically $2.99 to $3.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
Conclusion
“From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money” attempts to continue the horror and action blend of its predecessor but falls short in several areas. While Robert Patrick’s performance and the mix of genres provide some entertainment, the film struggled with comparisons to the original, plot coherence, and production quality. For viewers in the United States, the film is accessible on various streaming services and rental platforms. Whether you choose to stream, rent, or purchase, “From Dusk Till Dawn 2” offers a modest, if not exceptional, addition to the horror genre.
