Returning to A Quiet Place

With John Krasinski back in the director's chair and handling writing duties alone this time around, "A Quiet Place Part II" is an expansive continuation and worthy sequel

While the rippling effects of the global pandemic still continue to be felt, there appear to be signs a return to considerable normalcy could be forthcoming. Perhaps now more than ever, the movie industry is banking on this coming to fruition. When theaters shuttered in spring of last year, nearly every high profile release was pulled or pushed back to a later date. One of the first to do so was "A Quiet Place Part II". Originally intended for release in March of 2020, it was postponed several times, despite already having its world premier and a significant rollout campaign. Finally, one of the most anticipated horror sequels in recent times descended upon cinemas this past Memorial Day weekend and brought some of the biggest numbers the domestic box office has seen in nearly a year and a half. It would appear the wait was a worthwhile endeavor for both the studio and fans, but does it match the thrills of the original?

The story follows the remaining members of the Abbott family; Regan (Millicent Simmonds), Marcus (Noah Jupe), Evelyn (Emily Blunt) and her unnamed newborn. After surviving the events of the first film, they venture back out into the world seeking to possibly find other humans and refuge. Their trek leads them to Emmett (Cillian Murphy), an old family friend who's been scrounging for survival just as they have. He reluctantly takes them in, but the new living situation presents some challenges and matters become especially complicated when its revealed sound-hunting creatures may not be the only danger lurking around. The film also features Djimon Hounsou, Krasinski himself returning as Lee Abbott and Marco Beltrami's music again as the film's composer.

"A Quiet Place" was a surprise hit when it crept into theaters back in 2018. The high-concept post-apocalyptic thriller was well-liked by fans and critics alike, using its incredible sound design and overall novelty to great effect. That element of surprise would not be afforded to the sequel and to a degree, it suffers because of it. The film doesn't have any sequences that match the white-knuckle thrills of the first, but there are a few more action-oriented setpieces that are adequately entertaining. The movie also doesn't have the emotional core of the original, as the family dynamic takes a backseat in favor of what becomes two separate narratives which drive the plot forward. However, with Krasinski's hand steadying the ship, the story cohesively flows from its predecessor and feels like a natural extension. Regan, who was a key character in the first, really grows into her own, as a lot of the film rests squarely on Millicent Simmonds's shoulders. The young actress (who is deaf), along with Noah Jupe, do a phenomenal job of actualizing the pain and determination needed to make these children believable. Cillian Murphy is also a welcome addition, with Emmett serving as the perfect parallel to Lee. In addition to strong acting and character work, the film's direction is tight and with the movie swapping more claustrophobic locations in favor of the open world, it allows for some great cinematography. While "A Quite Place Part II" isn't quite on par with the first installment, it is a worthwhile companion piece and is certainly a cut above when compared to various other horror sequels. B