The Stalker: Part II

I really enjoyed The Stalker and the sequel The Stalker: Part II totally outshines the first. Don't get me wrong, like I said, I liked the 1st but it's not often that a part 2 is better than it's predecessor. The filmmakers really did a great job on this one. A few of the roles were recast but the story does not suffer from this. I really like how the story continues with not only a lot of the trauma from the first movie spilling over but they also added in new drama and trauma which really keeps you engaged in the story. I highly recommend you check out both The Stalker and The Stalker: Part II.

Don't ask me why, but I decided to watch part 2 before I had seen part 1. There was a bit of confusion as I didn't completely know the characters back stories, but don't worry, director Michelle Lewis did an excellent job with unfolding the story, so for those who happen to be in the same boat as me you are good.

The film opens in a dark swampy lake with a hand darting out of the water. I can assume this is how the Stalker "died" in the first film. There is no messing around as we are immediately thrust into the story. At less than an hour this film is a non stop thrill ride of scares and terrors. Some of the scariest films in my opinion are those that look at what the mind of a single sadistic individual can do. The Stalker 2 is one of those films!

There is also a subplot of consequences for past actions, and doing what we can to right past wrongs. Nothing can stay in the closet, or lake, forever!

The Stalker: Part II does a good job at pulling an audience in and keeping their attention for the duration of the film. This film sits just under an hour long and the structure actually lends to the overall engagement. While the film does progress quickly, there were some moments that may have benefited from some more drawn out reactions from the characters. The cinematography helps tell the story and build suspense with the use of wide shots, where your eyes have to dart around the screen to see if you can catch the stalker. There were some moments where I would have liked to have seen more close-ups and a more consistent shade of moonlight and contrast ratios throughout the image. The shot of the dad in the doorway near the beginning of the film with half his face completely dark encompasses the overall tone of the story. And the actor who portrayed the stalker did a really convincing job.

"The Stalker: Part II" not only lives up to its predecessor but exceeds expectations. This sequel skillfully combines dark suspense with humor, creating a captivating narrative. The cast delivers exceptional performances, and the lighting adds to the tension. The story masterfully blends old and new traumas.

It maintains the original's dark tone while introducing well-placed humor.

This film elevates the indie movie experience, demonstrating that it can exceed expectations on all fronts.

Offering a gripping and entertaining story that will satisfy fans of the original and captivate new audiences.

A must-see film.

Co-directors Michelle Lewis and Jared M. Reeder do very well to disguise a low budget production to look like a much higher value in this story about a madman's vengeance. You, of course, will get your typical bad performances here and there in film's like this and some corny bad lines, but this isn't supposed to be Shakespeare. This is for horror fans. The antagonist is a pretty convincing crazy man. And his zany sidekick, played by Troy Fromin, make quite an exciting pair together to watch. One thing I'd like to see more of in this Crime Slasher is...well...more slashing and more cool kills to see. Although, the film ends with a shot that leads one to think more is to come in a third installment that may bring more of that. If you are alone, looking for a good horror movie to watch, this one will likely fill your psychotic little heart.