AI Robot Tech Hub
Best HALLOWEEN: H20 / HALLOWEEN RESURRECTION – DOUBLE FEATURE Review
Let’s talk about Michael Myers. Not the friendly Mike Myers of Austin Powers fame, but the silent, relentless embodiment of evil that stalks Laurie Strode and the sleepy town of Haddonfield. Today, we’re diving deep into a double feature: Halloween H20: 20 Years Later and Halloween: Resurrection. These two films represent a fascinating, and often divisive, chapter in the Halloween franchise. H20 promised a triumphant return for Jamie Lee Curtis and a definitive showdown between Laurie and Michael, while Resurrection…well, we’ll get to Resurrection. Prepare for a rollercoaster of nostalgia, questionable plot twists, and some good old-fashioned slasher scares.
Halloween H20: A Return to Form?
Halloween H20: 20 Years Later arrived in 1998 with a wave of anticipation. After several sequels that deviated significantly from John Carpenter’s original vision, H20 promised a return to the core elements that made Halloween a classic. The primary draw was undoubtedly the return of Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode, now living under an assumed name as Keri Tate, headmistress of a private boarding school in California. Laurie is haunted by the events of 1978, battling PTSD and struggling to maintain a normal life. The film cleverly acknowledges the previous sequels (minus Halloween III: Season of the Witch, which remains a delightful anomaly) while positioning itself as a direct sequel to Halloween II.
The film’s strength lies in its exploration of Laurie’s trauma. Curtis delivers a powerful performance, portraying a woman perpetually on edge, grappling with fear and paranoia. The boarding school setting provides a contained and isolated environment, reminiscent of the original Halloween, creating a palpable sense of dread. The supporting cast, including Josh Hartnett and Michelle Williams, adds to the youthful energy of the film, mirroring the teenage victims of the original. The pacing is tight, building suspense effectively as Michael’s presence becomes increasingly imminent.
H20 cleverly plays on the audience’s expectations. The opening sequence, featuring Marion Chambers (Nancy Stephens reprising her role from the original and Halloween II) is a masterclass in suspense, setting the stage for Michael’s return. The film incorporates several nods to the original Halloween, including musical cues and visual references, creating a sense of continuity and nostalgia. For fans who felt let down by some of the later sequels, H20 offered a glimmer of hope that the franchise could recapture its former glory. It’s a solid slasher film with a strong emotional core, anchored by Curtis’s compelling performance. However, as we all know (or will soon discover), the ending is… controversial.
The practical applications of H20 extend beyond simple entertainment. The film’s exploration of trauma and PTSD can be a valuable tool for understanding the psychological effects of violence. While fictional, Laurie’s struggles resonate with real-world experiences, prompting discussions about the importance of mental health support and coping mechanisms. The film’s themes of fear, paranoia, and the lingering impact of past events are relevant in various contexts, from personal relationships to societal anxieties.
The “Final” Showdown…Or Is It?
The climax of H20 features a seemingly definitive confrontation between Laurie and Michael. After years of running and hiding, Laurie finally confronts her tormentor, engaging in a brutal and cathartic battle. The film ends with Laurie driving off a cliff with Michael’s seemingly lifeless body impaled with an axe. This ending was initially intended to be the conclusion of Laurie’s story and the Halloween franchise as a whole. It provided closure for Laurie, allowing her to overcome her fear and finally defeat Michael. However, as the title of our double feature suggests, this wasn’t quite the end.
The problem arose from contractual obligations and the insatiable appetite of Hollywood for sequels. The ending of H20 left little room for a continuation of the story, but the producers were unwilling to let the franchise die. This led to the creation of Halloween: Resurrection, a film that would effectively undo the ending of H20 and set the stage for yet another chapter in the Michael Myers saga. The ending of H20 is, therefore, a bittersweet moment. It’s a satisfying conclusion to the film itself, but its impact is diminished by the events of Resurrection.
Halloween: Resurrection – A Resurrected Nightmare?
Ah, Halloween: Resurrection. Where to even begin? This 2002 film is often cited as one of the worst entries in the Halloween franchise, and it’s not hard to see why. While H20 attempted to honor the legacy of the original films, Resurrection veers into self-parody and embraces a more contemporary, MTV-style aesthetic. The plot revolves around a group of college students who participate in a live internet broadcast from the Myers house on Halloween night. Little do they know, Michael Myers is lurking in the shadows, ready to turn their reality show into a real-life horror movie.
The fundamental issue with Resurrection is its blatant disregard for the established lore and character development of the previous films. The opening sequence immediately undermines the ending of H20, revealing that the Michael Myers Laurie killed was actually a paramedic wearing Michael’s mask. This plot twist is not only convoluted but also disrespectful to the emotional weight of Laurie’s arc in H20. The film essentially invalidates her hard-won victory and reduces her character to a plot device.
The introduction of a reality show element feels incredibly dated and forced. The characters are largely unlikable and stereotypical, lacking the depth and relatability of the characters in the original Halloween or even H20. The dialogue is often cringe-worthy, and the attempts at humor fall flat. The film’s reliance on jump scares and cheap thrills further detracts from the suspense and atmosphere that made the earlier Halloween films so effective.
While Resurrection has its defenders (every film does, somewhere), it’s difficult to argue that it’s a worthy addition to the Halloween canon. It’s a prime example of a sequel that prioritizes shock value and novelty over substance and storytelling. The film’s legacy is largely one of disappointment and ridicule, a stark contrast to the respect and admiration afforded to the original Halloween and even H20.
The practical applications of Halloween: Resurrection are, admittedly, limited. It can serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing profit over artistic integrity. It also highlights the importance of respecting established lore and character development when creating sequels or adaptations. In a broader context, Resurrection can be seen as a reflection of the early 2000s obsession with reality television and the internet, a trend that has not aged particularly well.
Busta Rhymes vs. Michael Myers: A Fight for the Ages?
One of the most infamous aspects of Halloween: Resurrection is the inclusion of rapper Busta Rhymes as Freddie Harris, the head of the internet broadcast. Rhymes’ performance is… well, it’s memorable, to say the least. His character is over-the-top and often unintentionally hilarious, providing a stark contrast to the stoic and menacing presence of Michael Myers. The film culminates in a bizarre and awkward fight scene between Freddie and Michael, featuring kung fu kicks and catchphrases. This scene is often cited as a prime example of the film’s tonal inconsistencies and its departure from the traditional Halloween formula. It’s… something.
This strange battle also raises questions about the film’s target audience. Was it trying to appeal to a younger demographic unfamiliar with the original Halloween films? Was it attempting to inject humor into a franchise known for its suspense and horror? Whatever the intention, the inclusion of Busta Rhymes and the subsequent fight scene ultimately detract from the film’s overall impact. It’s a moment that is more likely to elicit laughter than fear, solidifying Resurrection‘s reputation as a misguided and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to revitalize the Halloween franchise.
Comparing the Two: A Tale of Two Sequels
Let’s break down the key differences and similarities between Halloween H20 and Halloween: Resurrection in a more structured way:
| Feature | Halloween H20: 20 Years Later | Halloween: Resurrection |
|---|---|---|
| Plot | Laurie Strode confronts Michael Myers at a boarding school. | College students film a reality show in the Myers house. |
| Tone | Suspenseful, psychological thriller with slasher elements. | Self-parody, reliant on jump scares and cheap thrills. |
| Laurie Strode | Protagonist, haunted by trauma, actively fights back. | Minor role, character arc undermined. |
| Michael Myers | Silent, menacing presence. | Less imposing, almost cartoonish at times. |
| Acting | Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a strong performance. | Generally weak, with some campy performances. |
| Ending | Seemingly definitive confrontation, later retconned. | Absurd and unsatisfying. |
| Overall Reception | Generally positive, considered a decent sequel. | Widely panned, considered one of the worst Halloween films. |
As you can see, the two films are vastly different in terms of tone, quality, and overall impact. H20 strives to honor the legacy of the original Halloween, while Resurrection seems intent on subverting it. The table clearly illustrates the strengths of H20 and the weaknesses of Resurrection, highlighting why one film is generally regarded as a worthy sequel and the other as a major disappointment.
Here’s a comparison focusing on user experience, relevant to anyone considering watching these films back-to-back:
| Aspect | Halloween H20 | Halloween: Resurrection |
|---|---|---|
| Usability (Enjoyment) | High. Engaging plot, strong characters, and effective suspense. Great for Halloween fans. | Low. Weak plot, unlikable characters, and reliance on cheap thrills. Difficult to enjoy. |
| Home Viewing Experience | Solid suspense and scares, suitable for a dark night in. Great re-watchability. | Likely a one-time watch, even for dedicated Halloween fans. More humorous than scary. |
| Office Viewing (Team building) | Not ideal unless the team enjoys intense horror and psychological thrillers. Could spark interesting discussions about trauma. | Not recommended. Could be considered offensive or simply a waste of time. |
| Educational Use (Film studies) | Can be used to discuss the slasher genre, the portrayal of trauma, and the impact of sequels. | Can be used as a case study in how not to make a sequel. |
| Senior Care Scenario | Potentially triggering due to its intense themes. Careful consideration required. | Unsuitable due to its violence and potentially disturbing content. |
The above highlights the vast usability differences between the films. H20 offers a solid, enjoyable experience for fans of the genre. Resurrection, however, struggles to find its footing and offers little in the way of genuine enjoyment or practical application.
Final Verdict: Trick or Treat?
Ultimately, this double feature is a mixed bag. Halloween H20 is a worthy addition to the Halloween franchise, offering a compelling story, strong performances, and a return to the suspenseful atmosphere of the original films. While its ending is ultimately undermined by the events of Resurrection, it remains a solid slasher film with a strong emotional core. Halloween: Resurrection, on the other hand, is a significant disappointment. Its convoluted plot, unlikable characters, and reliance on cheap thrills make it a difficult film to recommend, even to die-hard Halloween fans. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing novelty over substance and disrespecting established lore. So, watch H20 and maybe skip Resurrection entirely. Consider it a "trick" you don’t need to experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Halloween: Resurrection so widely disliked?
Halloween: Resurrection suffers from a multitude of issues that contribute to its negative reception. The most significant is its blatant disregard for the established canon of the Halloween franchise, particularly the ending of Halloween H20. Retconning Laurie Strode’s victory over Michael Myers diminishes her character’s arc and undermines the emotional weight of the previous film. The plot itself is convoluted and relies on tired horror tropes, such as the "reality show gone wrong" scenario. The characters are largely unlikable and underdeveloped, lacking the depth and relatability of those in the earlier films. The film’s attempts at humor often fall flat, and its reliance on jump scares and cheap thrills detracts from the suspense and atmosphere that made the original Halloween so effective. The Busta Rhymes/Michael Myers fight scene is also a frequent point of criticism, highlighting the film’s tonal inconsistencies and its departure from the traditional Halloween formula.
Q: Is Halloween H20 a good sequel to the original Halloween?
Yes, Halloween H20 is generally considered a good sequel to the original Halloween. It effectively captures the suspenseful atmosphere of the original film and features a strong performance from Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode. The film’s focus on Laurie’s trauma and her struggle to overcome her past adds depth and complexity to her character. The boarding school setting provides a contained and isolated environment, reminiscent of the original Halloween, creating a palpable sense of dread. While the film’s ending is ultimately retconned in Halloween: Resurrection, it remains a satisfying conclusion to the film itself. H20 successfully bridges the gap between the original Halloween and the contemporary slasher films of the late 1990s, making it a worthwhile addition to the franchise.
Q: How does Halloween: Resurrection affect the Halloween timeline?
Halloween: Resurrection creates significant continuity issues within the Halloween timeline. Its retcon of the ending of Halloween H20 not only diminishes Laurie Strode’s character but also opens up a can of worms in terms of explaining Michael Myers’ survival. The film’s events contradict the emotional weight of H20 and create a sense of discontinuity with the rest of the franchise. Many fans choose to ignore Resurrection altogether, preferring to view H20 as the definitive conclusion to Laurie Strode’s story. The film’s impact on the Halloween timeline is largely negative, creating confusion and frustration among fans.
Q: What is the best way to watch the Halloween movies in chronological order?
Determining a definitive chronological order for the Halloween movies can be tricky due to the various retcons and reboots that have occurred over the years. A common approach is to start with John Carpenter’s original Halloween (1978) and then follow with Halloween II (1981). After that, you have a choice: you can proceed with Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988), Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers (1989), and Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995). Alternatively, you can watch Halloween H20 (1998) and Halloween: Resurrection (2002), understanding that Resurrection undoes the ending of H20. Keep in mind that Rob Zombie’s Halloween (2007) and Halloween II (2009) are remakes and exist in their own separate timeline. Finally, David Gordon Green’s Halloween (2018), Halloween Kills (2021), and Halloween Ends (2022) form another separate timeline that ignores all previous sequels except the original Halloween.
Q: What makes the original Halloween so much better than its sequels?
The original Halloween (1978) stands out due to its simplicity, suspense, and effective use of atmosphere. John Carpenter’s direction creates a sense of dread and unease throughout the film, relying on subtle camera angles, minimalist music, and a slow-burn approach to build tension. Michael Myers is portrayed as a silent, enigmatic force of nature, his motivations largely unknown, which makes him all the more terrifying. The film’s focus on ordinary teenagers and their vulnerability to evil makes it relatable and impactful. The sequels often attempt to replicate the success of the original by introducing convoluted plotlines, excessive gore, and unnecessary backstory for Michael Myers, which ultimately detracts from the film’s effectiveness. The original Halloween is a masterclass in minimalist horror, and its influence can be seen in countless slasher films that followed.
Q: Are there any Halloween movies that are completely unrelated to Michael Myers?
Yes, there is one Halloween movie that is completely unrelated to Michael Myers: Halloween III: Season of the Witch (1982). This film tells a standalone story about a sinister toy company that plans to sacrifice children on Halloween night using cursed masks. Season of the Witch was intended to be the start of an anthology series of Halloween films, each telling a different horror story set on or around Halloween. However, the film was poorly received by fans who were expecting another Michael Myers slasher, and the anthology concept was abandoned. Despite its initial unpopularity, Halloween III: Season of the Witch has gained a cult following over the years and is now appreciated for its unique and bizarre storyline.
Price: $11.89
(as of Sep 06, 2025 18:54:13 UTC – Details)
All trademarks, product names, and brand logos belong to their respective owners. didiar.com is an independent platform providing reviews, comparisons, and recommendations. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by any of these brands, and we do not handle product sales or fulfillment.
Some content on didiar.com may be sponsored or created in partnership with brands. Sponsored content is clearly labeled as such to distinguish it from our independent reviews and recommendations.
For more details, see our Terms and Conditions.
：AI Robot Tech Hub » Halloween H20 Review HALLOWEEN: H20 / HALLOWEEN RESURRECTION – DOUBLE FEATURE – Didiar
