Synopsis:
Following the deadly events at home, the Abbott family (Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, Noah Jupe) must now face the terrors of the outside world as they continue their fight for survival in silence. Forced to venture into the unknown, they quickly realize that the creatures that hunt by sound are not the only threats that lurk beyond the sand path.
It takes courage to do what others won’t. Courage is oftentimes exhibited when you least expect it and by who you least expect. It’s not easy to possibly risk it all, it’s terrifying. There’s a strange comfort in just letting things be as they are because you feel as if your efforts won’t change anything. But what if your efforts could change everything? What if you could save everyone, save the world? Do you want to die knowing that you could’ve done something but didn’t, or would you want to possibly live on as a hero? You’re going to die anyway, right? So, you might as well give yourself a fighting chance to get to the other side of fear and go out on your own terms. That supreme voice of courage lies within all of us. When the beacon of hope begins to dim, courage comes in over that internal loudspeaker and guiding you through the darkness, if you allow it. Happen to life, do let life happen to you.
“You can’t do this.”
Strap yourself in because John Krasinski’s A Quiet Place Part 2 is a pulse-pounding, exhilarating journey that must be experienced. Looking for that rush of adrenaline, well Krasinski has done it again with the follow-up to his 2018 breakout hit, A Quiet Place. After the success of the first film, we all highly anticipated its sequel when it was announced. However, the following thought is always, will it be as good as the first one? Well, I’m here to tell you, it’s just as good, if not better and I stand firmly by that. No cap! As the kids say. The editing, the timing, and the direction are damn-near perfect. The creatures get plenty of screentime and we also get a bit of the origin as to how they arrived. Also, the scares are far from predictable and that’s a big thing for me as a horror fan. It does an amazing job of setting up every turn of the story, rocking you into a false sense of security before bringing the boom. I have to mention that I’m not one to jump or flinch during movies but dammit, John got me. T
he story is one of diminishing hope that transforms into flourishing strength and courage. Moreover, it’s about survival and the teamwork, sacrifices, and trust it takes to persevere. Along with some amazing performances by Noah Jupe, Millicent Simmonds, and Emily Blunt, the addition of Cillian Murphy adds another dynamic layer to the overall story. I viewed this screening in an AMC Dolby Cinema and let me tell you, it is the best possible way to get the full effect of a film where sound matters most. I had to drive further than I normally would, but it was worth it. The film looked and sounded amazing. With new locations, new discoveries, and new characters, A Quiet Place Part II is easily one of the year’s most exciting films. It is a must-see to kickoff the summer. Its rewatchabilty is high.
Plot & Pace
Picking up where the first film left off, the Abbott family, minus father and husband, Lee, is now on the move. With no food and limited protection, their home is no longer safe. Traveling with only what they can carry, they stumble upon a seemingly vacant building where they can take refuge. However, unbeknownst to them it is inhabited by a familiar face. When sitting and waiting is not enough for survival, they decide to venture further out where the creatures aren’t the only things to fear. Silence is the only way to stay alive.
The pacing of this film is great. It’s exciting from beginning to end and enthralling to the point that it’s over before you know it.
Characters & Chemistry
The cast did a phenomenal job. Noah Jupe as Marcus continues to show why he is the future. Millicent Simmonds as Regan takes full control of the film and impresses as the heart and symbol of courage. Emily Blunt flexes her acting prowess as the ever-resilient Evelyn. And Cillian Murphy as Emmett represents the loss of hope that opens the story up completely. The family dynamic is as impressive the second time around.
A Quiet Place Part II releases in theaters on May 28th, 2021. Stay safe and enjoy.
Director: John Krasinski
Writers: John Krasinski, Scott Beck, Bryan Woods
Producers: Michael Bay, Andrew Form, Brad Fuller, John Krasinski
Executive Producers: JoAnn Perritano, Allyson Seeger
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 1h 37m
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
