A Brief Review: A Quiet Place Part II

Welcome back to ‘A Brief Review’ a series of brief reviews on films from the present day and all the way back in time. Hoping to filter through the commotion and give some decent reviews of some rather decent films.

3 years ago, John Krasinski stunned the world with an exceptional piece of unique action cinema in A Quiet Place (2018) and showing up in UK cinemas in 2021 is the quite brilliant sequel. The beginning of the film takes you back to day 1 of the apocalyptic event where Lee (John Krasinski) arrives back into the drama as his families lives change forever. After the shocking introduction of the events origin, we flash forward to the present, a time where Lee is no longer with us, leaving Evelyn (Emily Blunt), Regan (Millicent Simmonds), and Marcus (Noah Jupe), plus a new-born baby alone to fend for themselves in a world plagued by creatures who destroy anything with sound. As the family venture into the unknown, they inadvertently reunite with Emmett (Cillian Murphy) an old family friend who has lost faith in life as they now know it, suggesting that the creatures who seek sound aren’t the only enemies lurking in the darkness.

I must start by mentioning the brilliance of John Krasinski’s direction. When the first film was released, I was pleasantly surprised by Krasinski’s scope, creativity and vibrance as he was able to craft a deeply powerful adventure, with strong emotion to match. The sequel is even better, and I never say things like that lightly. I’ve had a good week to think about how this film affected me and every time it just gets better in my head. From the entrancing soundtrack to the film’s flowing motion, you get the feeling that you are watching something utterly distinctive with A Quiet Place Part II. Not a bad effort from that guy from The Office (US).

Nevertheless, this film wasn’t just about the brilliance of it’s Writer/Director. The cast are genuinely astounding. Emily Blunt’s courage, care and power as the glue that holds the family together is unforgettable, Noah Jupe’s innocent anxiety with the situation that he has no control in, and of course the brilliant Millicent Simmonds who steals the show as Evelyn, the true embodiment of her father’s bravery and leadership. It is so refreshing to see a young female character given the spotlight to showcase this kind of spirit and guidance. As the brilliance of the leading actors shine, it cannot be forgotten about the impact of the films supporting cast. Primarily Djimon Hounsou who provides warmth and hope as a member of the serene island community, and Cillian Murphy as the man who slowly regains his faith in the world and the people around him.

Due to the pandemic, I haven’t been able to get out and see as many movies at the cinema in the way they were initially intended, yet I already get the feeling that A Quiet Place Part II will be one of, if not my favourite film of the year. It just speaks to me. It has action, emotion, heartbreak, and joy, and most importantly, it was made to be watched on the big screen. John Krasinski has managed to harness the success of the original film and take it to an even better level. It has to be seen by as many people as possible, and even if you feel it isn’t for you on the outside, I can assure you that there is something in there for everybody and that is the true strength of A Quiet Place Part II.

Exactly the kind of film we wanted and exactly the kind of film we received to build on the brilliant original. John Krasinski is a genius. That is all.

My Rating: 8.8/10


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