Review: ‘A Quiet Place Part II’
Once in a while, a sequel lives up to or even surpasses the original. One of those instances is right before us, A Quiet Place Part II is as good, if not better than the original.
To be skeptical about a sequel is normal, given the results of many past follow-ups in cinematic history. However, once in a while, a sequel lives up to or even surpasses the original. One of those instances is right before us, A Quiet Place Part II is as good, if not better than the original. Incredibly intense and nail-bitingly provoking, this film is another step to prove John Krasinski‘s greatness as a director.
What was just a normal day for the Abbott family turned into chaos as Day 1 of the alien invasion began. This film follows on from the shocking events of A Quiet Place and the family must now venture into the outside world. They make their way towards the fire in the distance, this is where Evelyn (Emily Blunt) and the kids meet Emmett (Cillian Murphy). Taking them in, temporarily, they discuss what to do. Meanwhile, Regan devises a plan. This occurs as she hears Emmett’s radio, which plays Bobby Darin‘s “Beyond the Sea” non-stop, which she thinks is a code.
John Krasinski’s directorial debut, A Quiet Place, was met with overwhelming acceptance, critically and commercially. Thus, a sequel was made. It’s not your typical run-of-the-mill follow-up, the chance was taken here to expand the world and focus on something different, albeit familiar. Part II, unlike the first, focuses primarily on the children and how their actions can have an impact in this terrible world.
A Quiet Place Part II takes all of the stamps of brilliance from the first, enhancing them. Filled with dread and fear, its spine-tingling tension never lets up. Krasinski works seamlessly with cinematographer Polly Morgan who crafts some of the most hauntingly beautiful images of the year. Shot on beautiful 35mm film, Morgan’s shots are incredibly rich with the deepest, most wondrous hues. As Morgan so aptly describes it, “it looks pretty and engaging, with a nostalgic look that you would find hard to achieve digitally.” On top of this, framing to enhance the film’s horror and added precision builds to the utterly mesmerizing visual feast that is A Quiet Place Part II.
The film is immensely entertaining, it’ll have audiences stuck to the edge of their seats. Just like the first, Krasinski’s film is writhing with suspense and terrifying moments as the atmosphere never lets up. Undoubtedly, one is left asking if another film is on the table. Looking at the greatness here, one can’t help but get excited as it’s clear that Krasinski has cracked it as a director and he, obviously, feels at home in this world. Cast-wise, the family all return and bring their absolute best. Krasinski returns for a mini cameo in the film’s terrifyingly explosive opening scenes. Blunt evokes fear like no other, performing through her caring, yet fierce eyes. Looks can mean a lot more than words in cinema, here, Krasinski’s performers prove just that. Millicent Simmons and Noah Jupe are fantastic, as they take on a lot of the focus. Cillian Murphy, once again, showcases his immense range in this welcoming, yet initially cold performance as Emmett.
A Quiet Place Part II is a must-watch and with cinemas opening their doors, it’ll be the cinematic experience to not miss. – Ben Rolph
Rating: 5/5
A Quiet Place Part II will be released on May 28, 2021.