Insidious: Chapter 2
Steve Fredrick
Owner, Steve’s Tours and Films Honolulu
Where and with whom did you see the movie? By myself at Consolidated’s Ward Theatres.
Overall, what did you think? Let me tell you a bit about my background and my passion for “the movies.” I love scary movies.
As a young person, I had the wonderful opportunity to see several of the original Godzilla movies, from Toho Studios, on the “big screen” at my local neighborhood theater. I also enjoyed seeing the Dracula films produced by Hammer Studios. During my college years, I discovered the classic horror films of Val Lewton and Robert Wise. [If you have a chance, check out The Body Snatcher (1945) and The Haunting (1963). As you can tell, I am a fan of classic horror films.
Insidious: Chapter 2 borrows heavily from several classic horror films of the past. It follows the current trend of ghost hunters investigating paranormal activity associated with an all-American family in Southern California. It was an entertaining film with moments of suspense and surprise. It held my interest.
Without giving away the ending, what was one of your favorite scenes? The wife walking through the house, looking for a mysterious figure, when something appears in the background. Later on, the two brothers, in their bedroom, playing with the tin-can phones. And what happens next.
On a scale of one to four stars, what would you rate this film? ★★ 1/2 In the storyline, there wasn’t anything that really surprised me. Given the low budget, the director did a good job with what he had.
What did you think of the cinematography? I liked the houses and the way they were photographed. I dislike the hand-held camera work during intimate scenes between actors. The shakiness of the camera calls attention to itself. For me, when a camera moves too much on the screen, I become aware that I am watching a movie. I am pulled out of the moment. It takes away from the actors’ performance. It is shameful that a director allows this to happen.
Did it remind you of any other work in film? This film has elements of The Blair Witch Project, The Exorcist, Ghost Adventures (TV series), Poltergeist and The Sixth Sense.
To whom would you recommend this movie? Guests of Uncle Steve’s Honolulu Ghost Tour.
Did any of the actors stand out? Barbara Hershey and Lin Shaye. In this film, these women have expressive faces. Also, I like Garrett Ryan.
Did you identify with any of the characters? No.
Did the soundtrack contribute significantly to the film? The use of low-toned music and sound effects adds greatly to suspense/mystery films. The creepy music added to the suspense of this film. The use of no music – silence – created great suspense.
Would you buy this movie when it comes out on DVD? No.
What’s your favorite movie snack? Hot dog and a soda.
On a different note, what’s new with you? Throughout the month of October, I will be hosting “Walk With the Dead,” a special ghost tour in the downtown Honolulu area. Please visit my website: StevesToursAndFilms.vpweb.com. Happy Halloween!
