My main complaint of the whole film (and most modern films) is the lacklustre writing; the pacing was off throughout and this isn’t helped by the film never really settling into a tone. With the opening being gritty and dramatic, you’re expecting it to stay very grounded throughout - then, when the coin flips, you’re left tired by the time you’re only halfway through as a result of the plot's constant whiplash.
The “Grabber” (played by Ethan Hawke) was menacing and unsettling in the first film; the realism of a grown man praying on young, vulnerable boys and the sweet relief when he faces his demise by the end is now lost due to him just coming back - although it is explained due to the supernatural elements in the world. However, the Grabber appearing just in dreams now makes it feel like a cheap knock-off version of the classic Nightmare on Elm Street.
Despite this, what I will say is that it is - once again - a stellar performance by eighteen-year-old Mason Thames who gets the chance to darken his character more in this film compared to the first. Where in the first he was a mostly timid, almost dorky child, he is now darkened by the trauma of the first movie, adding to the depth of his character. Even in the face of the lack-lustre script, Thames plays this flawlessly.
Another incredible highlight of the film is the impeccable set design - a positive of the majority of the film being set in one location is that every space feels consistent. The background details of sets only help further characters without it feeling like we are just told who they are.
I was left anticipating for something to click.
I do wish the film would’ve matured a bit more with its audiences - the first film felt like a good way for older teenagers to get into the horror space, and could’ve led to a stellar sequel in which we got to experience some proper gore and scares. Instead I was left anticipating for something to click; waiting for the ball to drop and to actually feel the stakes. Despite my complaints, I do think it works as a sequel; it still has a plot and makes sense, but unfortunately it just feels empty and lacking in charm compared to its predecessor.