Review of movie Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween

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Rating:3/5

Slappy (voiced by Mick Wingert), the evil ventriloquist’s dummy is back, and this time he has far bigger plans where he wants to use Nicola Tesla’s failed invention in a rather sinister way. A sequel to 2015's 'Goosebumps', this installment too, is based on children’s horror book series by the same name but has a fresh story. Although it does employ monsters from the book series. While 90s kids will identify with it and may get a bit nostalgic, they will not find a lot to catch their interest in this film given that it is strictly for kids. A clean, almost funny horror comedy, 'Goosebumps 2' is more on the lines of 'Night at the Museum', but instead of historical figures, there are monsters that are brought to life.

While the story line will engage kids, grownups will find their attention wavering, 'Goosebumps 2' is predictable but fun. The animation on this one is top notch. Writer Rob Lieber of 'Peter Rabbit' fame has scripted a decent story, tied all the loose ends and left more than enough room for yet another sequel. The casting is bang on and Jeremy Ray Taylor and Caleel Harris essay their roles well as two bullied boys trying to right a terrible mess that they have created. Madison Iseman kicks some righteous butt as the older sister and gives a credible performance. Jack Black as the author RL Stine makes it count in his appearance which can only be called a cameo. The movie could have been made better had he been given more of a role to get in on the action and battle the monsters. It could also have been better if there was more of smaller characters like Ken Jeong, the childless and childlike neighbour who is wickedly excited that his monsters from his favourite horror novel have come to life.