MovieChat Forums > Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 (2000) Discussion > Why I like this film.

Why I like this film.

posted 12 years ago by sunznc
1 reply | jump to latest

Not that anyone would care but I do believe there are some redeemable things about this film.
The atmosphere. Every scene has great atmosphere from the van to the outdoor sites to the interiors of Jeff's warehouse home. Great set decorating.
The characters. They each had their own little quirks.
I thought the initial idea was good. Maybe it was done better in a different film but they killed all those people, didn't remember it and it was spelled out in front of them on film.
They never ate! Only one person eats in this film.
I love the scene when they wake up and the paper is falling down on them like snow. Interesting photography.

[–] KennethWasHere 12 years ago

I completely agree with you. Although I suppose I can understand why people were disappointed, I'm still somewhat baffled by just how underappreciated and misunderstood this film really is.

Even though they should be treated separately, what it and the also underappreciated first film have in common is that they're both atmopsheric horror--that is, it's not about jump scares or even about building up to something, but about the way the film feels. On top of the great aesthetic qualities (along with the gorgeous surreal visuals you mentioned, I'd also add the great soundtrack and moody score), I love the way this film adds a touch of social commentary on the impact of the first film (which is part of why I prefer to think of it more as a spinoff).

The real problems with Book of Shadows have more to do with the studio meddling--those ridiculous flashes of blood and violence, for example, or the decision to market it as a direct sequel rather than as a metafictional spinoff. And of course, because of the rushed production, some of the acting leaves a lot to be desired ("SHE'S THE WITCH, MAN!").