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Best Halloween Trilogy (Halloween/Halloween Kills/Halloween Ends) Review: Halloween Ends
The Halloween franchise, a cornerstone of slasher horror, has seen numerous iterations, reboots, and retcons over the decades. However, the most recent trilogy – Halloween (2018), Halloween Kills (2021), and Halloween Ends (2022) – aimed to provide a definitive conclusion to the saga of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode. While the first two entries were met with a mixed but generally positive reception, Halloween Ends ignited a firestorm of controversy among fans and critics alike. This review delves deep into the trilogy, culminating in a comprehensive analysis of Halloween Ends and its divisive nature.
Revisiting the Legend: *Halloween* (2018) – A Welcome Return
David Gordon Green’s Halloween (2018) served as a direct sequel to John Carpenter’s original 1978 masterpiece, effectively erasing all subsequent films from the timeline. This bold move allowed the filmmakers to focus on a Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) traumatized and hardened by her encounter with Michael Myers forty years prior. She’s become a survivalist, preparing her daughter Karen (Judy Greer) and granddaughter Allyson (Andi Matichak) for the inevitable return of "The Shape."
The film excels at building tension and suspense, mirroring the pacing and atmosphere of the original. Michael Myers is portrayed as a relentless, unstoppable force, driven by instinct rather than motive. The kills are brutal and visceral, harking back to the grittiness of classic slasher films. Furthermore, the film explores the lasting impact of trauma, portraying Laurie as a deeply flawed but ultimately strong character. While some criticized the film’s reliance on nostalgia, most viewers appreciated its respectful treatment of the source material and its effective modernization of the Halloween formula. Halloween (2018) successfully re-established Michael Myers as a terrifying figure and set the stage for a potentially compelling conclusion to the saga. It also revitalized the interest in horror icons, paving the way for similar reboots and legacy sequels in other franchises. This film demonstrated that respect for the original material, combined with a fresh perspective, could breathe new life into a beloved series.
The box office success of Halloween (2018) proved that audiences were eager to see Michael Myers return to his terrifying roots. The film’s visual style, characterized by its stark lighting and realistic gore, contributed to its unsettling atmosphere. Green’s direction successfully captured the essence of Carpenter’s original vision while adding his own contemporary flair. The use of practical effects over CGI enhanced the film’s realism and made the violence feel more impactful.
Ramping Up the Carnage: *Halloween Kills* (2021) – Mob Mentality and Body Count
Halloween Kills picks up immediately after the events of the previous film. Michael Myers, having survived the fire, resumes his reign of terror, leaving a trail of bodies in his wake. This installment is significantly more violent and action-packed than its predecessor, with a focus on the collective fear and paranoia of the Haddonfield community.
The film explores the concept of mob mentality, showing how fear can lead to irrational behavior and ultimately, more violence. The townsfolk, fueled by anger and grief, form a vigilante group and hunt Michael Myers, inadvertently creating more chaos and bloodshed. While Halloween Kills delivers on its promise of relentless carnage, it suffers from a lack of narrative focus and character development. The film feels somewhat disjointed, with numerous subplots and characters that ultimately contribute little to the overall story.
One of the main criticisms of Halloween Kills is its gratuitous violence. While the Halloween franchise has always been known for its gore, this film takes it to an extreme, with scenes that feel exploitative and unnecessary. Some viewers found the relentless brutality to be numbing, detracting from the suspense and terror that made the original so effective. The film also suffers from inconsistent character behavior, with characters making illogical decisions that serve only to advance the plot. Despite its flaws, Halloween Kills is undeniably entertaining for fans of slasher films who enjoy over-the-top violence.
The performances in Halloween Kills are generally solid, with Jamie Lee Curtis delivering another strong performance as Laurie Strode, even though she spends most of the film in a hospital bed. The supporting cast, including Judy Greer and Andi Matichak, also deliver convincing performances. However, the film’s script fails to give these characters enough depth or agency, leaving them feeling like pawns in a predictable game of cat and mouse. The film also revisits several characters from the original Halloween movie, adding a layer of nostalgia for longtime fans of the franchise.
The Controversial Conclusion: *Halloween Ends* (2022) – A Bold Swing or a Missed Mark?
Halloween Ends attempts to break away from the traditional slasher formula, introducing a new character, Corey Cunningham (Rohan Campbell), who becomes a central figure in the story. The film takes place four years after the events of Halloween Kills, with Laurie Strode now living with her granddaughter Allyson and attempting to move on from her past. Corey, a young man ostracized by the community after being involved in a tragic accident, becomes entangled with Michael Myers and eventually succumbs to his own darkness.
This is where the controversy begins. Many fans felt that Halloween Ends deviated too far from the established formula, shifting the focus away from Michael Myers and onto Corey’s story. Michael himself has severely limited screen time until the film’s final act, which disappointed those expecting a final showdown between Laurie and Michael. Furthermore, Corey’s character arc is arguably rushed and underdeveloped, making his transformation into a killer feel unearned.
The film does attempt to explore themes of evil, trauma, and the cyclical nature of violence, but these themes are often heavy-handed and lack the subtlety of the original Halloween. Halloween Ends also incorporates elements of romance and social commentary, which some viewers found to be jarring and out of place in a slasher film. The ending, which features a final confrontation between Laurie and Michael, is divisive, with some praising its cathartic resolution and others criticizing its execution. The entire town coming together to destroy Michael’s body in a junkyard felt anticlimactic to many, lacking the suspense and horror that defined the earlier films.
Ultimately, Halloween Ends is a film that elicits strong reactions. Its bold attempt to subvert expectations and explore new themes is admirable, but its execution falls short of its ambition. The film’s pacing is uneven, its characters are underdeveloped, and its plot is convoluted. While some viewers appreciated its thematic depth and unconventional approach, many felt that it betrayed the legacy of the Halloween franchise. It wanted to say something more meaningful about the nature of evil, but it came at the cost of what made the franchise popular in the first place.
Comparing the Trilogy: A Breakdown
To understand the reception of Halloween Ends, it’s helpful to compare it to the other films in the trilogy:
| Feature | Halloween (2018) | Halloween Kills (2021) | Halloween Ends (2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Laurie vs. Michael | Community vs. Michael | Corey/Laurie vs. Michael |
| Pacing | Deliberate, Suspenseful | Fast-Paced, Action-Packed | Uneven, Character-Driven |
| Violence Level | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Critical Reception | Generally Positive | Mixed | Divisive |
| Box Office | Successful | Successful | Moderate |
| Theme | Trauma, Survival | Fear, Mob Mentality | Evil, Cycle of Violence |
This table highlights the key differences between the films. Halloween (2018) successfully rebooted the franchise by focusing on the core conflict between Laurie and Michael. Halloween Kills amplified the violence and explored the theme of mob mentality. Halloween Ends, however, attempted a significant departure by introducing a new protagonist and exploring deeper thematic concerns.
The Impact and Legacy of the Trilogy
Despite the controversy surrounding Halloween Ends, the trilogy as a whole has had a significant impact on the horror genre. It revitalized interest in legacy sequels and proved that classic horror franchises can still resonate with modern audiences. The films also sparked discussions about trauma, fear, and the nature of evil. While Halloween Ends may not have delivered the conclusion that everyone wanted, it undeniably challenged the conventions of the slasher genre and prompted viewers to think critically about the themes it explored.
The success of the trilogy has also inspired other horror franchises to revisit their roots and introduce new installments that build upon the original stories. The legacy of the Halloween franchise extends beyond the films themselves, influencing countless other works of horror cinema and popular culture. The image of Michael Myers, with his iconic mask and relentless pursuit of his victims, remains one of the most recognizable and terrifying figures in cinematic history. The impact of the Halloween trilogy will continue to be felt for years to come.
Practical Product Applications (In the spirit of Halloween)
While technically not a product, the Halloween trilogy offers several "practical applications" from a thematic and entertainment perspective, particularly within the context of Halloween:
- Home Entertainment: Hosting a Halloween movie marathon is a classic Halloween activity. The trilogy provides a complete narrative arc, offering hours of entertainment for horror fans. The movies can be used to set the mood for a Halloween party or as a way to relax and enjoy the spooky season.
- Educational Tool: While not traditionally educational, the films can be used to discuss themes of trauma, fear, and societal response to violence in a safe and controlled environment. They can serve as a starting point for conversations about mental health, the impact of violence on individuals and communities, and the role of fear in shaping our behavior. This is more suited for mature audiences and requires thoughtful discussion.
- Office Halloween Events: Showing clips or scenes from the Halloween trilogy (age-appropriate and workplace-sensitive) can be a fun way to add a spooky element to an office Halloween party or event. A Halloween-themed trivia game based on the films could also be a engaging activity.
- Senior Care – Reminiscence Therapy (With Caution): For seniors who have fond memories of the original Halloween films, watching the 2018 sequel can be a nostalgic experience. However, it is crucial to carefully select appropriate scenes and be mindful of potential triggers. The focus should be on positive memories and the cultural impact of the original film, rather than dwelling on the violence.
The Divisive Nature of *Halloween Ends*: A Deeper Look
The overwhelming criticism of Halloween Ends stems from a fundamental disconnect between what audiences expected and what the film delivered. After two films that leaned heavily into the slasher genre tropes, Halloween Ends attempted to subvert expectations by shifting the focus away from Michael Myers and onto a new character. This decision alienated many fans who were primarily interested in seeing a final showdown between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers. The limited screen time given to Michael, the rushed development of Corey’s character, and the film’s uneven pacing all contributed to its negative reception.
Furthermore, the film’s exploration of thematic elements such as evil and the cycle of violence felt underdeveloped and heavy-handed to some viewers. The inclusion of a romantic subplot involving Allyson also felt out of place and unnecessary. The ending, while intended to be cathartic, was criticized for its anticlimactic execution and lack of suspense.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that Halloween Ends also has its defenders. Some viewers appreciated its bold attempt to break away from the slasher formula and explore deeper themes. They saw Corey’s character arc as a commentary on the corrupting influence of evil and the cyclical nature of violence. They also praised the film’s exploration of trauma and its focus on Laurie Strode’s emotional journey. Ultimately, the reception of Halloween Ends is highly subjective and depends on individual expectations and preferences.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why is Halloween Ends so controversial?
Halloween Ends is controversial primarily because it deviates significantly from the established formula of the Halloween franchise. It introduces a new character, Corey Cunningham, as a central figure, shifting the focus away from Michael Myers for a significant portion of the film. Many fans felt that this was a betrayal of the series’ core elements and that the film failed to deliver the final showdown between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers that they were anticipating. Additionally, the film’s pacing, character development, and thematic explorations were criticized as being uneven and underdeveloped. The unconventional narrative choices and perceived lack of focus on the iconic villain led to a widespread backlash among fans and critics alike. Some fans felt the movie was mismarketed, giving the impression that this was to be Michael’s final revenge.
Q2: What are the main themes explored in Halloween Ends?
Halloween Ends explores several key themes, including the nature of evil, the cyclical nature of violence, trauma, and the power of community. The film examines how evil can manifest in different forms and how it can corrupt individuals and communities. It also explores the idea that violence begets violence and that trauma can have lasting consequences on people’s lives. Furthermore, the film emphasizes the importance of community in overcoming adversity and healing from trauma. The film attempts to address these themes through the characters of Laurie Strode, Corey Cunningham, and the residents of Haddonfield. While the intention to explore these themes is clear, many critics felt that the execution was heavy-handed and lacked the subtlety of earlier Halloween films.
Q3: Is Halloween Ends a good ending to the Halloween franchise?
Whether Halloween Ends is a "good" ending is entirely subjective and depends on individual preferences and expectations. Some viewers found the ending to be cathartic and satisfying, praising its focus on Laurie Strode’s emotional journey and its exploration of thematic elements. They appreciated the film’s attempt to break away from the slasher formula and offer a more nuanced and thought-provoking conclusion. However, many others were disappointed by the ending, criticizing its lack of focus on Michael Myers, its unconventional narrative choices, and its perceived failure to deliver a satisfying final showdown. Ultimately, whether or not you consider Halloween Ends a good ending will depend on your individual expectations and your willingness to embrace a departure from the traditional Halloween formula.
Q4: How does Halloween Ends compare to the other films in the trilogy?
Halloween Ends differs significantly from the other two films in the trilogy in terms of focus, pacing, and overall tone. Halloween (2018) served as a direct sequel to the original 1978 film and focused primarily on the conflict between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers. Halloween Kills amplified the violence and explored the theme of mob mentality. Halloween Ends, on the other hand, shifts the focus away from Michael Myers and onto a new character, Corey Cunningham, while also exploring deeper thematic concerns. The film’s pacing is also slower and more character-driven than the previous two installments. Overall, Halloween Ends represents a significant departure from the established formula of the Halloween franchise, which contributed to its divisive reception.
Q5: What is the significance of the character Corey Cunningham in Halloween Ends?
Corey Cunningham is a pivotal character in Halloween Ends as he represents the potential for evil to corrupt even seemingly innocent individuals. His character arc serves as a commentary on the cyclical nature of violence and the corrupting influence of trauma. Corey’s transformation into a killer reflects the idea that evil can be passed on from one generation to the next and that even ordinary people are capable of committing horrific acts. The film uses Corey’s character to explore the themes of isolation, ostracization, and the impact of societal judgment on individuals. However, the rushed development of Corey’s character arc was a major point of criticism, with many viewers feeling that his transformation was unearned and that his story detracted from the overall narrative.
Q6: Is Halloween Ends worth watching?
Whether Halloween Ends is worth watching depends on your expectations and your willingness to embrace a departure from the traditional Halloween formula. If you are primarily interested in seeing a final showdown between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers, you may be disappointed. However, if you are open to a more unconventional and thought-provoking approach to the slasher genre, you may find Halloween Ends to be a worthwhile experience. The film explores deeper thematic concerns and offers a more nuanced perspective on the nature of evil and trauma. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch Halloween Ends is a personal one. Be prepared for a movie that is likely to split your reaction.
Q7: What are some alternative horror movies to watch if I didn’t enjoy Halloween Ends?
If you didn’t enjoy Halloween Ends and are looking for alternative horror movies, consider exploring other films in the slasher genre that offer a more traditional approach to the formula, such as Friday the 13th (1980), A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), or Scream (1996). If you’re interested in films that explore similar themes of trauma and violence but in a different context, you might enjoy The Babadook (2014), Hereditary (2018), or The Witch (2015). For a more thought-provoking and atmospheric horror experience, consider It Follows (2014) or The Lighthouse (2019). Or you can circle back and watch the original Halloween. All offer different takes on classic horror elements and may provide a more satisfying viewing experience.
Q8: Will there be more Halloween movies?
The future of the Halloween franchise is uncertain. While Halloween Ends was marketed as the definitive conclusion to the saga of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode, the film’s box office success and the enduring popularity of the Halloween franchise suggest that more installments are likely in the future. Whether these future films will continue the story of the recent trilogy or reboot the franchise once again remains to be seen. The Halloween franchise has a long history of reinvention, so it’s safe to assume that Michael Myers will return to terrorize Haddonfield at some point in the future. However, the specific direction that the franchise will take remains a mystery.
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(as of Sep 11, 2025 14:35:44 UTC – Details)
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