The Woman in Black 2

The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death is a horrifying sequel to the hit 2012 movie, set in the same haunted Eel Marsh House, but this time taking place forty years later, during World War II. Widely appreciated for its consistent dark atmosphere and intense performances, The Woman in Black 2 stars the exceptional talents of British actress Helen McCrory, along with Jeremy Irvine, and Phoebe Fox.

The film is set in 1941, around forty years after the tragic events of the first movie, when England was in the throes of the Second World War. The plot thickens and veers towards the ominous when a group of eight children, orphaned due to the war and their caretakers, Eve Parkins (Phoebe Fox) and Jean Hogg (Helen McCrory), are obliged to leave London and seek refuge in the bleak and isolated Eel Marsh House.

As the storyline progresses, we find out that Eve, herself, has a tragic past that she’s trying not to be haunted by. She tries her best to take care of the children, shielding them from the bitter realities of war and their new eerie residence. Jeremy Irvine plays a dashing military pilot named Harry Burnstow, who is stationed near the house. He forms a romantic interest for Eve, further adding intrigue to the story.

Unfortunately, their new dwelling holds a ghastly secret that proves more deadly than the war itself. For in the decayed and quiet halls of the Eel Marsh House resides the malevolent Woman in Black. The bitter and wrathful spirit finds a new target in these innocent children who unwittingly get caught in her path of vengeance, and Eve must face her own haunting past to protect their lives.

The empty Eel Marsh House provides a stark contrast to the noisy and busy streets of London, enhancing the suspense. Audiences are held in anticipation, as death seems to lurk in every shadow and the terror amplifies with each small sound. The lead characters create an engaging narrative, piecing together hints of their backgrounds, while trying to steer clear from the deadly path of the Woman in Black.

McCrory’s powerful performance as the stern and resolute headmistress Jean Hogg contrasts beautifully with Fox’s portrayal of the caring and compassionate Eve. Despite the horror encircling the story, there are tender moments between Eve and the children that add to the emotional complexity of the film. Jeremy Irvine’s portrayal of the chivalrous Harry Burnstow is praise-worthy, as he brings an additional element of mystery and a ray of hope in the face of despair.

Director Tom Harper employs stark cinematography and chilling sound elements to heighten the terror and suspense. He successfully upholds the chilling atmosphere of the house, building upon the successful elements of the first movie, and creates haunting and unsettling situations that keep the viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death is a classic ghost story that combines elements of horror and suspense with an emotive narrative. This results in a thrilling, riveting watch that takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride between tender moments, intense fear, heart-throbbing suspense, and poignant scenes.

With its eerie charm and fine performances from the cast, The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death succeeds in keeping the audience engrossed. This film is a must-watch for those who appreciate a good horror film and those who have an affinity for historic horror gems that provide a terrifying examination of mortality and the haunting persistence of the past. The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death goes beyond jump scares and cheap thrills – it offers poignant storytelling that'll stay with you well after the credits have rolled.