Halloween II Blu-ray Review

Shout Factory's 1080p/AVC-encoded video transfer of "Halloween II" reveals noticeable improvements over the previous 2011 Universal release, despite being derived from the same master. Shout Factory's meticulous restoration effectively mitigates many of the minor but persistent damages in the earlier transfer, including white specks, dark pocks, tiny burns, and various scratches, without introducing any overt digital artifacts. The subtle use of digital techniques ensures the integrity of Dean Cundey's soft, shadow-rich photography is maintained. While not entirely blemish-free, the reduction in print damage marks a commendable enhancement that contributes to a cleaner, more polished appearance.

Color saturation and skin tones remain consistent with the previous release, offering well-saturated and vibrant hues, especially in the film’s distinctive red special effects. Black levels are robust and fine details are exceptionally resolved, aside from certain shots that display inherent softness due to the source material's limitations. Critical elements such as artifacting, banding, aliasing, and other encoding flaws are notably absent, and grain structures appear natural and consistently unobtrusive.

In comparison to Universal's anniversary Blu-ray, this Shout Factory edition provides a slightly superior presentation with more stable contrast and better-defined texture details in facial features and clothing. Although some scenes exhibit more pronounced grain and subtle color timing artifacts due to the age of the source, these irregularities do not detract significantly from the overall visual quality. The collector's edition will likely be favored by fans for its higher definition and improved clarity, presenting "Halloween II" in its best possible state given the film’s vintage and original filming conditions.

The Shout Factory release of "Halloween II" significantly enhances the audio experience by offering two robust DTS-HD Master Audio tracks: a meticulously remixed 5.1 surround sound and a high-quality lossless stereo mix. The 5.1 remix is particularly impressive, with clean and clear voice reproduction that occasionally sounds slightly thin due to the film's age rather than any deficiency in the audio track. Low-frequency effects (LFE) deliver a spectrum from weighty to jarring, embodying the ideal horror movie ambience. The rear channels offer subtle environmental effects while effectively featuring the film's dynamic score. However, certain sound effects may appear overstated across all speakers, occasionally impacting the natural auditory balance.

For purists, the 2.0 stereo mix offers a closer experience to the original audio design while maintaining excellent dialogue clarity. The front soundstage delivers a steady presence, ensuring well-balanced channel separation and broad imaging, particularly notable during Carpenter's iconic theme. The mid-range remains sharp and distinct without distortion in the upper frequencies. While the bass is sufficient and supports dramatic moments, it does not overpower other elements of the track.

Both audio tracks are exceptional, with the 5-channel mix providing a wider, more immersive soundstage than its stereo counterpart. The dedicated subwoofer channel adds increased punch and response, enhancing various elements of the soundtrack. The classic synth music’s presence in the surround channels promises greater envelopment, which will undoubtedly appeal to longtime fans. Whether opting for the immersive 5.1 surround or the faithful 2.0 stereo mix, both options present a fantastic auditory experience suitable for various preferences.

The Blu-ray release of "Halloween II" provides a robust assortment of extras that will satisfy both diehard fans and casual viewers. The two audio commentaries offer diverse perspectives: Director Rick Rosenthal and actor Leo Rossi deliver an engaging discussion despite occasional pauses, while stunt coordinator Dick Warlock and Robert V. Galluzzo provide a more lively and continuous dialogue that is quite informative. The standout feature, "The Nightmare Isn't Over!,” offers a comprehensive retrospective on the making of the film, enriched by candid insights from key crew members. Additional features include the unique Television Cut, which aligns more closely with Rosenthal's original vision, albeit at standard definition. Other notable extras, such as deleted scenes, an alternate ending with commentary, and a location tour, round out an extensive and well-curated collection.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentaries: Two tracks – one with Director Rick Rosenthal and actor Leo Rossi, and another with stunt coordinator Dick Warlock and Robert V. Galluzzo.
• The Nightmare Isn't Over!: Comprehensive making-of documentary with interviews from the key crew.
• Halloween II: The Television Cut: An alternate version more in line with the director's original vision.
• Deleted Scenes with Optional Commentary: Adds depth to the original cut.
• Alternate Ending: Includes optional commentary by Rosenthal.
• Horror's Hallowed Grounds: A guided tour of shooting locations by Sean Clark.
• Theatrical Trailer and TV & Radio Spots: Collection of promotional materials.
• Stills Gallery: A reel of production photos and promotional stills.

Halloween II (1981), directed by Rick Rosenthal as a direct sequel to John Carpenter's 1978 classic, deserves more credit than often bestowed upon it. Despite controversies surrounding Carpenter's eleventh-hour involvement in adding gorier sequences to Rosenthal's original cut, the film maintains a carefully paced narrative that mirrors the tension and atmosphere of its predecessor. Picking up immediately after the first film's conclusion, it follows Michael Myers as he continues his rampage through Haddonfield, Illinois, eventually targeting Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) at a local hospital. While the movie leans more on splatter elements compared to the original, it effectively uses shadows and deliberate pacing to create a menacing, suspenseful atmosphere.

Cinematographer Dean Cundey's return ensures that the visual style remains consistent with the original, employing dark, menacing shadows that conceal the killer until it's too late for his victims. Particularly effective scenes include Myers materializing behind a nurse or ambushing a young hospital volunteer, highlighting Rosenthal's—or possibly Carpenter's—preference for slow, deliberate chills over cheap scares. While some of the supporting cast's performances fall flat and the increase in gore can undermine the psychological tension, the core performances by Curtis and Donald Pleasance (as Dr. Sam Loomis) help ground the film's suspenseful narrative.

The decision to set the sequel in a hospital adds a layer of claustrophobia and isolates Laurie from her small-town environment, which some may feel detracts from the "this could happen in my neighborhood" chilling relatability. Nonetheless, Halloween II's emphasis on an unstoppable, almost supernatural Michael Myers influenced future horror icons like Jason Voorhees and Freddy Krueger. Despite some logical inconsistencies and less impactful horror than the original, Halloween II stands out among 80s slasher sequels for its technical competence and lasting influence on the genre.

Shout Factory's release of "Halloween II" stands as the definitive Blu-ray edition of this enduring '80s sequel. Featuring a superior video transfer and two DTS-HD Master Audio mixes, this Collector's Edition surpasses the 2011 30th Anniversary Edition by Universal in nearly every aspect. While Universal’s edition uniquely includes the 82-minute "Terror in the Aisles" documentary, the combination of robust supplementary content and exceptional technical upgrades makes Shout Factory’s version the preferred choice for most avid fans, despite its slightly higher price.

Continuing the atmospheric terror of the original, "Halloween II" provides an entertaining extension of John Carpenter's 1978 classic. Jamie Lee Curtis and Donald Pleasance reprise their roles in a direct follow-up, with Rick Rosenthal making his feature-length directorial debut. Highlighting the same thematic elements and stylistic approach, the movie effectively picks up moments after its predecessor's conclusion. Shout Factory has delivered an enhanced picture quality, marginally better than previous releases, but it is the pristine lossless audio that notably outshines earlier versions.

In conclusion, Shout Factory's Blu-ray of "Halloween II" is an invaluable addition for collectors and fans alike. The inclusion of new bonus features and the TV Cut elevates its appeal even further. Despite the absence of "Terror in the Aisles," the comprehensive package offered by Shout Factory means that it is unquestionably the go-to release for Michael Myers enthusiasts seeking top-notch video and audio presentations.