The Dentist 2 – Film Review

The Dentist 2, directed by Brian Yuzna and written by Richard Dana Smith, is a horror film that attempts to carry on the dental nightmare from its predecessor, The Dentist. While the first film managed to elicit a certain level of discomfort and suspense, its sequel falls short in many aspects.

The film picks up where the first installment left off, with Dr. Alan Feinstone (played by Corbin Bernsen) serving time in a mental institution for his dental-inspired murders. Upon his release, he goes back to his old ways, obsessively maintaining his own teeth and embarking on a new killing spree. The plot, while continuing the narrative of the original, feels contrived and repetitive. The lack of character development is glaring, as Dr. Feinstone’s motives and psyche remain shallow and one-dimensional.

Bernsen, who reprises his role as the sadistic dentist, fails to infuse the character with any nuance or evolution. He simply reverts to the same psychotic tendencies as in the first film, offering little growth or depth to the character. The supporting cast does little to improve matters, with forgettable performances and underdeveloped roles that do nothing to enhance the overall narrative.

The visual aspect of The Dentist 2 is one of the film’s slightly redeeming qualities. Cinematographer Jürgen Baum captures some gruesome dental procedures in unnerving detail. The use of close-up shots and dental tools dripping with blood effectively adds to the film’s horror aesthetic. However, the film’s low budget is apparent in some of the less polished scenes, and the overall visual style is not enough to compensate for the lackluster storytelling.

Horror films often rely on shock value and gore to create tension and fear. While The Dentist 2 certainly attempts to capitalize on this, it does so in a predictable and uninspired manner. The dental procedures are gruesome, but they lack the creativity and innovation that could make them truly unsettling. Most of the horror elements in the film feel forced and are often accompanied by cheesy sound effects that undermine the intended terror.

Additionally, the film’s attempts at humor frequently fall flat, further diluting the impact of its horror scenes. This tonal inconsistency leaves the audience unsure of whether to laugh or scream, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience.

The pacing of The Dentist 2 is uneven, with long stretches of the film feeling slow and uneventful, only to be interrupted by brief bursts of chaotic violence. The editing fails to maintain a sense of tension or build-up, making it challenging to become fully invested in the unfolding story. It often seems like the filmmakers were struggling to fill the runtime, leading to unnecessary scenes and subplots that add little to the overall narrative.

One of the most significant flaws of The Dentist 2 is its lack of originality. It rehashes the same basic premise as the first film, offering very little in terms of fresh ideas or twists. The narrative is driven by a series of predictable events and clichéd horror tropes, leaving the audience feeling like they’ve seen it all before. The attempt to add depth to Dr. Feinstone’s character through flashbacks is poorly executed and ultimately does little to enhance the story.

The Dentist 2 is a disappointing follow-up to its predecessor. While it offers some gruesome dental horror and a few visually striking moments, it fails to deliver a compelling narrative, well-developed characters, or a genuinely terrifying experience. The lack of originality and the tendency to rely on tired horror conventions make it a forgettable addition to the genre.