Friday the 13th Part 2 – Film Review

The second entry in the long-running horror series focuses on a group of teenage would-be counselors converging on Camp Crystal Lake for training under the tutelage of head counselor Paul. Inevitably, Paul relates the story of Jason Voorhees, a boy who ostensibly drowned at the camp and whose mother murdered a group of counselors in revenge. No one takes the tale seriously until a very much alive Jason begins gruesomely eliminating people.

Friday the 13th Part 2, directed by Steve Miner, is the second installment in the iconic slasher franchise. Released in 1981, it attempts to build on the gruesome success of its predecessor while introducing new elements to the formula. While it does have some notable strengths, including creative kills and a menacing antagonist, it also stumbles in a few critical areas. This in-depth review will explore both the positive and negative aspects of the film, assessing its contribution to the horror genre.

The film picks up five years after the original, as a new group of camp counselors arrives at a nearby training camp. Ginny (Amy Steel) emerges as the central character, a psychology student who takes on the role of the film’s “final girl.” While her character exhibits more depth and resourcefulness compared to the original film’s protagonist, she still falls into some genre clichés.

The supporting characters, unfortunately, remain mostly one-dimensional, serving as mere cannon fodder for the merciless killer, Jason Voorhees. Unlike some later entries in the franchise, Part 2 doesn’t invest much time in developing its characters, leaving viewers with minimal emotional investment in their fates.

One of the film’s strengths is its effective use of setting and atmosphere. The remote, woodsy campgrounds provide an eerie backdrop for the bloodshed to come. The darkness and isolation of the setting heighten the tension, as the counselors are left vulnerable to a lurking menace.

Furthermore, Steve Miner’s direction effectively builds suspense through creative camera work and skillful editing. The film maintains a palpable sense of dread throughout, with the audience left perpetually on edge. The use of suspenseful music and silence also contributes to the film’s chilling atmosphere.

Friday the 13th Part 2 excels in delivering memorable kill sequences and gory effects. This is where the film truly shines, as Jason dispatches his victims with brutal creativity. The practical effects used for the kills are surprisingly well-done for a low-budget 1980s horror film, showcasing the talents of makeup artist Tom Savini.

The standout moment involves a wheelchair-bound character meeting a particularly grisly end in a shocking and unforgettable sequence. These moments of graphic violence are the film’s calling card and what it’s remembered for. However, the excessive focus on gore can also be a detriment, as it occasionally overshadows character development and plot coherence.

Part 2 introduces us to the adult Jason Voorhees, who takes over as the main antagonist. While the film sets up Jason’s backstory and motivation to a certain extent, the continuity with the original film is inconsistent. For instance, Jason was supposed to have drowned as a child, yet he’s now an adult, seemingly resurrected.

The introduction of Jason as the killer adds a new layer of terror to the franchise, as he emerges as an imposing and relentless force. However, the lack of a proper explanation for his resurrection feels like a missed opportunity to add depth to his character.

Friday the 13th Part 2 remains a pivotal entry in the slasher genre and the long-running franchise. It builds upon the foundation of the original film by introducing Jason as the killer, setting the stage for countless sequels and spin-offs. Its contribution to horror cinema is undeniable, as it solidified the Friday the 13th series as a staple of the genre.

However, the film is far from flawless. It suffers from weak character development, occasional lapses in continuity, and an overemphasis on gore at the expense of other storytelling elements. While the kill sequences are memorable, they can’t carry the film entirely.

Friday the 13th Part 2 will always have a place in the hearts of horror fans for its role in shaping the slasher genre. It’s a mixed bag of horror delights, with moments of brilliance and moments of frustration. Whether you view it as a classic or a relic of its time, it undeniably played a significant role in the evolution of horror cinema.