Halloween Kills (2021) Movie Review: A Brutal Continuation of Michael Myers’ Rampage
Introduction
“Halloween Kills” (2021), directed by David Gordon Green, is the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 reboot of the iconic “Halloween” franchise. This film continues the harrowing tale of Michael Myers, the masked killer who has haunted the town of Haddonfield for decades. With a blend of brutal kills, nostalgic callbacks, and a relentless pace, “Halloween Kills” delivers a chilling experience for horror fans.
Plot Summary
The film picks up immediately after the events of the 2018 “Halloween,” where Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) and her family believe they have finally defeated Michael Myers by trapping him in a burning basement. However, Michael survives the inferno and resumes his killing spree. The town of Haddonfield, led by Laurie’s daughter Karen (Judy Greer) and granddaughter Allyson (Andi Matichak), bands together to hunt down and end Michael’s reign of terror once and for all.
As Michael tears through Haddonfield with unmatched ferocity, the film explores themes of fear, trauma, and community vengeance. Laurie, severely injured and hospitalized, is sidelined for much of the action, allowing other characters to take center stage in the fight against the unstoppable killer.
Character Analysis
Jamie Lee Curtis once again shines as Laurie Strode, though her role is more limited compared to the previous film. Her portrayal of a trauma survivor turned warrior continues to resonate, even as she is forced to confront her own vulnerabilities. Judy Greer and Andi Matichak deliver compelling performances, showcasing the Strode family’s resilience and determination.
The supporting cast, including Anthony Michael Hall as Tommy Doyle and Kyle Richards reprising her role as Lindsey Wallace from the original 1978 film, adds depth to the narrative. Their characters, representing the collective trauma of Haddonfield, bring a sense of urgency and desperation to the story.
Direction and Cinematography
David Gordon Green masterfully blends intense action sequences with atmospheric tension, creating a relentless pace that keeps viewers on edge. The film’s cinematography, handled by Michael Simmonds, captures the eerie ambiance of Haddonfield and the brutal nature of Michael’s killings with stark, unflinching clarity. The use of practical effects and minimal CGI adds to the film’s raw and visceral feel.
Themes and Symbolism
“Halloween Kills” delves deeper into the psychological impact of Michael Myers on the town of Haddonfield. The film explores the idea of collective trauma and the ways in which fear can unify and divide a community. Michael is portrayed not just as a man, but as an embodiment of pure evil, an unstoppable force that thrives on chaos and violence.
The film also addresses the concept of vigilantism, as the townspeople take the law into their own hands in their quest to eliminate Michael. This mob mentality, while understandable, leads to tragic consequences and questions the morality of their actions.
Available Streaming Services and Rental/Purchase Options
For viewers in America, “Halloween Kills” is available for streaming on various platforms. As of now, you can watch the film on:
- Peacock: “Halloween Kills” is available for streaming on Peacock Premium. Subscribers can watch the movie at no additional cost.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting the movie costs around $5.99, while purchasing it is approximately $19.99.
- Apple iTunes: Available for both rental and purchase, similar to Amazon Prime Video.
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent or buy “Halloween Kills” here, with prices comparable to other platforms.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film, offering high-definition streaming.
Conclusion
“Halloween Kills” successfully delivers on the promise of its predecessor, providing fans with a blood-soaked, adrenaline-pumping continuation of Michael Myers’ saga. While the film may not break new ground in terms of plot or character development, it excels in its execution of suspense and horror. The brutal kills and relentless pace make it a worthy addition to the “Halloween” franchise, setting the stage for the final showdown in the upcoming “Halloween Ends.”
For horror enthusiasts and fans of the series, “Halloween Kills” is a must-watch that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this iconic story. With its availability on multiple streaming platforms, it’s easier than ever to join the hunt and experience the terror of Michael Myers.
