Rating: ★★☆☆☆(2/5 Stars)
Released 03-09-2018
Watched 03-14-2024
Reviewed 03-19-2024
Rented From iTunes
"I killed one of yours! How's that feel, huh?"
"The Strangers: Prey at Night" brings back the chilling atmosphere and tension of its predecessor, but unfortunately, it falls short in delivering anything substantially new or revealing about its mysterious antagonists. As a sequel, it feels more like a rehash of the original film than an expansion on its lore.
The movie follows a family staying at a secluded trailer park, only to be terrorized by the same trio of masked killers from the first film. While the suspense is effectively maintained throughout, with moments of intense fear and anxiety, it ultimately feels like déjà vu. The same cat-and-mouse game, the same relentless pursuit, and the same lack of explanation regarding the motives or identities of the killers leave viewers craving for more depth and substance.
One of the most disappointing aspects of "Prey at Night" is its failure to provide any meaningful insight into the backstory of the mysterious assailants. We are still left with the same burning question: Who are these killers, and why do they commit such heinous acts? The vague explanation—"why not?"—feels like a cop-out and does little to satisfy curiosity or add layers to the narrative.
Furthermore, the characters in the film are thinly developed, making it difficult for the audience to invest in their plight emotionally. While the actors deliver competent performances, they are limited by the lack of depth in their roles, reducing them to mere targets for the killers rather than fully fleshed-out individuals with their own fears and desires.
"Prey at Night" does have its moments of suspense and terror. The tension-filled sequences, coupled with the eerie atmosphere and haunting soundtrack, may succeed in keeping a few viewers on the edge of their seats. However, these fleeting moments of excitement are not enough to compensate for the overall lack of originality and depth in the film.
"The Strangers: Prey at Night" may appeal to fans of the original film who are seeking more of the same thrills and scares. However, for those looking for a sequel that delves deeper into the mythology of the killers and offers new insights into their motivations, this film will leave them feeling unsatisfied and wanting more.