September 17, 2012
Halloween II
Ken Tasho READ TIME: 1 MIN.
The Boogeyman Michael Myers never died in the original 1978 "Halloween" and an undying franchise was born thanks to its successful follow-up sequel. Coming only a year after the 30th anniversary DVD/Blu-ray edition, a new Collector's Edition of 1981's "Halloween II" is on hand with the special features the previous editions should've always had.
This is without a doubt the definitive release of "Halloween II," with the original theatrical version included, as well as the rare and hard-to-find television version. The TV cut features scenes are not included in the theatrical release. Both versions feature Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) once again stalked by Michael Myers, as Dr. Sam Loomis (Donald Pleasence) tries to save the day. Taking place at a deserted hospital with no patients in sight, the sequel is ludicrous at times and enhances the gore from John Carpenter's original classic. The screenplay presents a copout twist which haunts the franchise to this day.
Whatever flaws "Halloween II" may have (especially Jamie Lee Curtis' bad wig), this is one of the better sequels, which begot 6 more films and 2 others in Rob Zombie's reboot franchise. Other DVD releases had a mere theatrical trailer but this edition boasts 9 special features! Two audio commentaries are here, one with director Rick Rosenthal and actor Leo Rossi, and one with stuntman Dick Warlock. Interviews with cast members and a tour of the movie's locations are the best features to watch, while the alternate ending, radio/TV spots, deleted scenes, and a still gallery are decent as well.
"Halloween II"
DVD
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Ken Tasho is a Corporate Drone by day and Edge Contributor by night. He has a love for all things '80's and resides in the Wayland Square area of Providence, RI...but would much rather be sharing an apartment in NYC with '80's rock goddesses Pat Benatar and Deborah Harry.