DON’T BREATHE 2 (2021) – Blood and gore done right a second time around

In 2016, a film about how a bunch of thieves who broke into the house of a blind man, ended up being the victims instead, became a big hit. Now some 5 years later, comes the inevitable sequel to cash in on the original’s success. Happily it was a wait well worth it as this sequel successfully emulate its predecessor, if not improved on it.

Once again, Stephen Lang takes on the main character, simply referred to as The Blind Man. Once again his home is invaded by a bunch of nasties. This time, the game is upped with the inclusion of a young teenage girl Phoenix (played by Madelyn Grace) whom who are told is his daughter. The baddies this time have something more up their sleeves than just robbery as they have some motives behind the capture of the young girl as well. Our blind man is naturally invincible and proved to be far more deadly than his adversaries without without the benefit of vision. Stephen Lang does an excellent job in portraying him. This is definitely a very physical performance as there is minimal dialogue as he is left to demonstrate his killing skills. All the killings are nicely choreographed and suitably graphic to satisfy the blood thirsty tastes of the targeted audience.

But what makes a blood and gore movie stand out is the twists and unexpected outcomes of its usually thin plot. There is usually little time for characterisation or emotions to be displayed and yet Don’t Breathe 2 still manages to invoke some sense of relationship and tenderness between its tough guy Blind Man and the young Phoenix. This is most apparent in the final act which classily offers a proper closure without any cheap gimmicks. The disclosure of the relationship with the villain played by Brendan Sexton III, and the importance given to dogs as supporting characters also offers something different from the norm.

The Blind Man here is very much a anti-hero which makes him far more interesting as he comes across as someone who is flawed and vulnerable. This made us have a conflicting sense as we find ourselves rooting for him despite his imperfections. Something that the little girl begins to discover herself as the story moves along.

I liked Don’t Breather because it is unpretentious, offers something more than just the standard gruesome death scenes. That immediately makes it stand above others in the genre. Looking forward to more from writer, co-producer and director, Rodo Sayagues.