FINAL DESTINATION 2 - Bitesize Review # 3

Final Destination 2 **½
USA: David R. Ellis, 2003.
Format: Original Theatrical Release

Note: My bitesize review was originally published by the Kent Messenger Newspaper Group and refers to the theatrical run of the film.

The idea of death being a malevolent force that actively hunts you down is chilling to the extreme. Sadly, like the original Final Destination, this sequel turns a potentially innovative premise into little more than a series of elaborate death scenes.

The death knell begins after Kimberly (Ali Larter) has a premonition whilst waiting at the on road of a motorway. In a bid to prevent the loss of life she has foreseen Kimberly blocks the entrance. When the forecasted pile-up occurs attention turns to the explosion of Flight 180 and the events of the original movie.

Just as before, the intended victims begin to meet with freak and fatal accidents. Afraid they have incurred the grim reaper’s wrath by cheating death, Kimberley and the remaining car crash survivors unite in an effort to stay alive.

Best described as a fair ground ride, Final Destination 2 delivers its thrills through the most basic shock tactics. The half-realised efforts of the first film to build tension and atmosphere are never even attempted in the sequel. The one concern is to orchestrate a number of potentially dangerous circumstances, before executing the action with quite gratuitous relish.

I won’t deny Final Destination 2 is easily digested confectionary for the eyes. Its extensive servings of blood-soaked gore, accompanied by gallous humour will not fail to make you grimace and guffaw. It just disappoints expectations for anything other than the average fair that’s come before.

Final verdict: Little to recommend it other than more of the same for fans of the original.