“Haunted House 2,” the sequel to the new horror movie parody chain started by the Wayans Brothers last year, follows Malcolm (Marlon Wayans, “White Chicks”) as he moves into a new home, new neighborhood, a new family and hopefully no ghosts attached to the house. The story is told with the same finesse as the “Scary Movie” franchise, also created by the Wayans Brothers, weaving numerous popular horror films into one film. In the case of “Haunted House 2,” they make fun of movies such as “Paranormal Activity,” “The Exorcist” and “The Possession.” While the movie is part of a franchise and makes references to the first film, it is not particularly imperative to view the first movie before viewing the sequel.
The film combines old characters from the first film with new characters, some of whom have appeared in other films by the Wayans Brothers in previous years. Wayans’ character is trying to erase the horrors of the past, moving in with a new family into a home that appears perfectly normal and safe, with the intention of starting over, although he still employs the use of cameras as a precaution.
He moves in with his new girlfriend, Megan (Jaime Pressly, “My Name is Earl”) and her two children, Becky (Ashley Rickards, “Awkward”) and Wyatt (Steele Stebbins, “Wish You Were Here”). Becky is a stereotypical American teenager, with a very promiscuous demeanor, sullen attitude, and hatred of Malcolm, whom she constantly reminds is not her father. Wyatt, though he does not seem to have any problems with Malcolm, has an imaginary friend he constantly talks to, plays with and emulates, picking up urban slang and cuss words throughout the duration of the film. While the children have smaller roles in the film itself, they are essential in adding to Malcolm’s suspicions of the supposed safety of the house, and proof of demonic activity. It is Becky’s attachment to a creepy box and increasingly sullen attitude that finally convinces Megan that Malcolm is not crazy and something must be done to save them all from the evil demon trying to get rid of them.
“Haunted House 2” delves right into the story, starting with the conclusion of the first movie, with the assumption that his previous girlfriend, who was possessed by a demon, is dead, and fast-forwards a year into the future with Malcolm’s new family. Malcolm’s happiness does not last long, starting with the death of his dog, Shiloh Jr., during the move-in process and escalating from there. Throughout the movie, shenanigans ranging from old home videos of a demon trying to kill the previous family to the demonic possession of a creepy doll leave the audience in tears over the hilarity of said actions.
However, as funny as the movie is, there are elements that could be offensive to certain individuals. There are racial slurs and stereotypical behavior throughout the movie, and while portrayed by characters of said stereotypical identities, others watching the film may not appreciate the slurs, which is a factor directors and writers must be aware of when creating a film of this caliber. While racial slurs and stereotypical behavior occur in numerous films these days, there already exist societal tensions regarding issues of race, gender, sexuality, etc., and adding to said tensions through a film meant to be a comedic parody could potentially result in a disconnect to the film by the audience.
Also, there is a lot of vulgar language, sexual acts, nudity and dirty humor that not everyone may find funny. This movie is definitely rated R, and viewers should be aware that there may be parts of the movie that may shock or surprise them with their vulgarity and/or sexual tendency, and that not everyone will enjoy the sense of humor required to fully enjoy the movie. Also, this movie is definitely not a film for children, another fact of which viewers should be aware. If children are permitted to view this film, parents should be aware that there are numerous instances in this film that can potentially shock the sensibilities of their child, especially if they have not taught or exposed them to certain things prior to the viewing of this film.
Despite the negatives, the film is well made and written in a way that leaves room for further series development. Viewers who enjoyed the “Scary Movie” franchise, “White Chicks” and the first “Haunted House” will undoubtedly enjoy this film, and others who have never seen any of these movies will enjoy the ups and downs of Malcolm’s paranormal struggles and the amusing twists from well-known horror films.
