Movie Review: A Haunted House 2 (2014)
Written by Anthony Sargon
There hasn’t been a good “Scary Movie” since the second one (although I personally love the third one), and no one can argue that the franchise has run its course. Hollywood will likely keep churning them out, but audiences aren’t stupid enough to fall for the same trick. Many of you may not know that Marlon Wayans actually produced and co-wrote the first two “Scary Movie” flicks, until the studio took over creative control and shat all over the franchise (again, I liked number 3!) Last year’s “A Haunted House” was Marlon Wayans’ chance to reclaim what was once his; the horror spoof. While I didn’t exactly enjoy the first film, I can confidently say that “A Haunted House 2″ is a superior sequel in every way, and while it’s brimming with stupidity, I couldn’t help but laugh. Do I feel ashamed for enjoying it? Just a tad.
After having dealt with his possessed wife in the last film, Malcom (Marlon Wayans) is about to start a new life with his new girlfriend Megan (Jamie Pressly) and her two kids Wyatt (Steele Stebbins) and Becky (Ashley Rickards). As soon as they move in, paranormal shit starts happening again, which doesn’t sit well with Malcom since he’s already experienced it before. As things become more out of control, Malcom enlists the help of paranormal researchers Noreen (Missi Pyle) and Ned (Hayes McArthur), as well as Father Williams, played once again by the great Cedric the Entertainer.
The flick spoofs films like “Paranormal Activity” and “The Conjuring”, but the narrative feels a lot more focused than the last film. We spend most of our time with Malcom rather than with silly secondary characters, and although the film definitely has its fair share of supporting players, Malcom is front and center. Most of the jokes are crude, raunchy, immature, and often racist, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t laugh. Wayans is willing to go really far to get a laugh, and here’s an example: There’s an extended (and graphic) scene of Malcom having passionate sex with a possessed doll. Yup, you read that right. Wayans is constantly reaching for the lowest common denominator, but when something is so incredibly dumb, you have no choice but to give in and revel in the stupidity.
Another factor to take into account is the cinema audience. I watched the movie in a full theater, so even if a particular joke didn’t land with me, the audience’s reaction would force me to at least chuckle. But seriously, some of the jokes are so out-there and ridiculous that you’ll find yourself laughing without really knowing why. His brand of comedy is extremely juvenile, but it didn’t matter. It helps that Marlon Wayans is as charismatic as ever, and you can tell he’s having a blast. Cedric the Entertainer’s Father Williams is once again my favorite character in the film, and his lines are great. Gabriel Iglesias actually has a small role as Malcom’s neighbor, which opens the floodgates to numerous stereotype gags. The rest of the cast is passable, but this is Wayans’ show.
The Verdict:
“A Haunted House 2″ is still very hit-or-miss, but I had a much better time with the flick than expected, and would recommend it only if you walk in with the right mindset. It’s stupid, juvenile, lazy, but often quite funny. I’d pick this over “Transcendence” any day.
Numerical Score: 6/10
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