Halloween II Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Halloween II" presents a mixed yet generally positive visual experience for viewers. The 1080p/AVC encoded image showcases significant improvements in detail and definition, compared to previous iterations, revealing finer textures such as bullet-hits on Michael's body, the texture of his worn mask, and the intricate brickwork of the hospital. Despite its enhanced sharpness, the print is occasionally marred with various age-related imperfections including pops, dots, nicks, and speckles. However, the grain remains intact without the disturbing presence of detrimental digital noise reduction (DNR) or edge enhancement, retaining a faithful and film-like quality. The primary hues, notably reds and greens, pop with vibrancy, enhancing the visual storytelling, though some scenes exhibit minor shimmer and reduced clarity.

Color performance on this release is robust, delivering saturated hues that command attention. This includes the vivid reds of neon and blood, the lush greens evident in police attire and foliage, and the evocative oranges seen in pumpkins and fire effects. The image excels in its shadow detail, despite occasional overwhelming blacks that may occasionally obscure finer elements. However, these deep black levels help achieve a tremendous sense of depth and mood, vital for a horror film. Contrast is generally well-balanced, offering a crisp punch to most scenes and lending a distinctive appearance to natural facial complexions and other fine details such as hair and clothing.

Overall, this video presentation avoids common issues like smearing, ringing, and egregious manipulation often seen in catalog releases. While white specks, dark pocks, and other minor blemishes occasionally border on distraction, the Blu-ray version substantially outclasses its DVD counterparts, presenting Dean Cundey's cinematography in a more pronounced and immersive fashion. As far as catalog horror releases go, "Halloween II" offers a distinctly high-defification that will appeal to both new viewers and longtime fans invested in upgrading their home viewing experience.

The audio presentation of the "Halloween II" Blu-ray is anchored by a DTS Processed 5.1 surround track and a DTS 2.0 stereo option, both of which are lossy formats. The absence of a lossless audio track is disappointing, but the current offerings still manage to deliver a notable auditory experience. The DTS 5.1 track, though not flawless, significantly enhances what was previously a lackluster soundscape. With surprisingly robust bass levels and clear dialogue, it provides an engaging aural experience, particularly with the iconic Carpenter synth score that shines with precision and depth. Sound effects like door movements and distant shouts are integrated effectively, adding to the sonic immersion even though rear speaker activity can be inconsistent.

The musical score, a vital component of the film’s atmosphere, is handled impressively well in both formats. The front soundstage delivers excellent channel separation, and higher frequencies remain sharply rendered without fidelity loss. However, low-end output in the 5.1 mix lacks finesse at times, contributing a somewhat uneven experience throughout. Impacts such as stabbings or gunshots display varying degrees of clarity and punchiness; some are vividly forceful, while others appear downmixed.

Overall, though the DTS 5.1 track adds layers of excitement to the viewing experience with an assertive and clear presentation, it is not without its flaws. Rear effects may feel scattershot and lacking. Purists may find solace in the DTS 2.0 stereo mix, which offers a more faithful and balanced auditory depiction despite being less immersive than a high-rez alternative.

The extras included in the Blu-ray of "Halloween II" are somewhat underwhelming, with content that feels more like filler than substantial additions to the film. The feature-length "Terror in the Aisles," a 1984 horror compilation hosted by Donald Pleasence and Nancy Allen, is presented in HD but offers little in terms of insightful commentary about the genre. The collection also includes a series of deleted scenes that add minimal value—the highlight arguably being an alternate ending that slightly clarifies discrepancies in the theatrical cut. Despite these shortcomings, it is worth noting that these features are exclusive to this Blu-ray edition, providing some added interest for diehard fans of the series.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Hospital staff fumbling and Loomis with a deputy.
• Alternate Ending: A brief, happy conclusion adding minor clarity.
• Terror in the Aisles: A vintage compilation of horror clips hosted by Donald Pleasence and Nancy Allen.

In Rick Rosenthal’s "Halloween II," the film picks up seamlessly from where John Carpenter's original left off, delivering an engaging, albeit less groundbreaking, continuation. Carpenter’s absence as director is palpable but compensated slightly by his post-production involvement, adding needed intensity to Rosenthal's softer cut. While the screenplay dilutes the suspense and complexity of characters like Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Dr. Loomis (Donald Pleasance), Michael Myers remains a compellingly eerie presence. The juxtaposition of Rosenthal's deliberate pacing with Carpenter's unmistakable influence results in a film that—despite its inconsistencies—manages to stand out in the crowded field of horror sequels.

The atmospheric cinematography by Dean Cundey punctuates the nightmarish hospital setting with menacing shadows and stark lighting, effectively maintaining the first film’s high-tension aesthetic. The DTS 5.1 audio track adds a robust layer to the viewing experience, enhancing both the iconic score and the visceral sound effects. Despite some missteps, such as inconsistent character logic and over-the-top gore, Rosenthal adeptly replicates the original’s mood and suspense, ensuring that "Halloween II" sustains its place in the genre. The blend of deliberate chills and unexpected gore sequences—like a nurse’s grim fate in a scalding hot tub—underscore Michael Myers’ transformation into an almost superhuman force of evil.

While not attaining the iconic status of its predecessor, "Halloween II" enriches the mythology of Michael Myers and introduces narrative elements that would shape the franchise. The film's decision to set events on the same fateful night as its predecessor allows for a seamless narrative thread, though it sacrifices some originality in doing so. Despite its imperfections, "Halloween II" effectively builds on Carpenter's legacy, offering enough thrills, suspense, and gruesome creativity to satisfy fans and critics alike. Patterson’s adept direction under Carpenter’s shadow ensures that this sequel remains a notable chapter in horror cinema.

Halloween II' might not reach the heights of its iconic predecessor, but it remains a solid entry in the '80s horror sequel pantheon. Jamie Lee Curtis and Donald Pleasance effectively reprise their roles, maintaining the suspense and terror that defined the original. Directed by Rick Rosenthal in his feature debut, the film manages to capture the thematic essence of Carpenter's classic, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.

This Blu-ray edition presents an impressive video transfer, ensuring that the chilling visuals are crisp and engaging. However, the audio quality does not fare as well, with lossy audio tracks that may disappoint audiophiles seeking a more immersive sound experience. The release is bolstered by the inclusion of "Terror in the Aisles," an 82-minute documentary from 1984, and a few exclusive supplements, adding value to this anniversary edition despite its sparse extras.

In conclusion, 'Halloween II' isn't perfect; not by a long shot. But among horror sequels of the '80s, it's much better than its critical drubbing might suggest. Sadly, Universal's Blu-ray release has its own share of problems. With a pair a lossy audio tracks in tow and just ten-minutes of sequel-centric extras, horror junkies will have to rely on its solid video transfer and the inclusion of Terror in the Aisles (an 82-minute theatrical documentary released in 1984) to justify the disc's tempting price point. My advice? At thirteen dollars, 'Halloween II' is a bargain-priced treat, not a bargain-bin trick. Give it a spin.