Plot: What’s it about?
A series of brutal, horrific murders has rocked Japan, as many citizens are afraid to go through their normal routines. Although any serial killer is sure to terrify people, this one uses methods so twisted, the entire nation lives in fear. The killer in these murders rips the insides out of the victims, which leaves a sick bloodbath behind. In addition, only women have been preyed upon and that has the female citizens in total shock. Aki (Youko Nakagima) works as a film projectionist, but her mind isn’t as stable as it should be. She is haunted by a ghost, one that comes to her in childlike form and pushes her over the brink. At the same time, her friend Emi (Rie Kondou) is covering the murders for a local news program. She is a news reported after all, but she soon turns matchmaker and tries to land Aki a man of her own. The man involved in this forced romance is Kurahashi (Shirou Sano), but he has some dark secrets as well. He happens to be a married man and even beyond that, his past contains some horrific memories. All three of these people live normal lives, but each one has a darker side, a side that no one else is aware of. As the bodies continue to pile up from the brutal murders, what will become of these three? And what drives the killer to commit these terrible, sick crimes against humanity?
This is a sequel, but in name and tone only, as Evil Dead Trap 2 doesn’t continue the events from the original picture. But the same Dario Argento inspired themes are present, so fans of the first film should be pleased here. I do think Evil Dead Trap packed more of a punch, in terms of style, atmosphere, and overall horror elements, but if you’re looking for more, then Evil Dead Trap 2 is worth a look. The visuals are well handled, with lots of cool use of colors and creative camerawork in numerous scenes, but it all never amounts to much. So there is some style in Evil Dead Trap 2, but the film never develops its own brand of visual presence. A few nice touches do spice up the experience, but we’ve seen most of these tricks before. As far as scares and brutal moments, this movie had a lot of both, but when stacked up against the original, as well as other recent Asian genre pictures, it comes up short. The premise is an excellent one, especially as far as our lead, but the flick never cashes in on that potential. So what could have been an eerie, disturbing experience winds up as a decent, but often retread production. Still, as inconsistent as the elements within Evil Dead Trap 2 can be, I was still entertained. So if you’re a fan of horror movies, especially Asian ones, then you’ll want to give this one a chance.
Video: How does it look?
Evil Dead Trap 2 is presented in 1.66:1 widescreen, which is not enhanced for widescreen televisions. This was a direct to video release shot on less than the best elements, so don’t expect much beyond a basic presentation. The print looks solid, but grain is present throughout and can be somewhat of a bother at times. I was also let down by the contrast, as black levels never hit the right tones and seem inconsistent. This kind of a movie, with lots of dark visuals needs crisp contrast, but here grey hues are more common than deep, rich blacks. On the plus side, colors are well handled and when needed, the hues can be quite vivid and full. This isn’t a dynamic visual effort, but when you consider the limited source material, I think Unearthed Films has given us a more than acceptable overall treatment.
Audio: How does it sound?
The original Japanese soundtrack is preserved here, via a 2.0 option that leaves no lasting impression. The presentation is basic in all respects, but never slips enough or spikes enough to make much difference. I’d rather have this kind of nondescript soundtrack however, instead of a troubled one that lessens the experience. The materials have some hiccups, but nothing serious and all the pieces seem to be in proper order here. The dialogue is clean and clear, though if you don’t speak Japanese, you might not be too worried anyway. No trouble with the sound effects or bad music either, its all in fine form in this treatment. In case you need them and chances are you will, English subtitles have also been provided.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes a selection of still photos, as well as the film’s trailer.
