Woman in Black 2, The: Angel of Death (4/14/2015)

Rated PG-13 for some disturbing and frightening images, and for thematic elements.

Starring Jeremy Irvine and Phoebe Fox

Directed by Tom Harper

Another disappointing sequel.

As bombs rain down on London during the Blitz of World War II, a group of school children are evacuated with Eve, their young and beautiful schoolteacher, to the safety of the English countryside. Taken to an old and empty estate, cut-off by a causeway from the mainland, they are left at Eel Marsh House. One by one the children begin acting strangely and Eve, with the help of local military commander Harry, discovers that the group has awoken a dark force even more terrifying and evil than the city’s air raids. Eve must now confront her own demons to save the children and escape the wrath of The Woman in Black.

A few years I gambled on The Woman in Black, and I actually thought it was pretty good. So when the squeal hit the big screens, I thought I’d give it a chance.

Unfortunately The Woman in Black 2 failed to live up to the expectations.

First of the all, the cast was a big step backwards. No Daniel Radcliffe this time around. Instead we get Jeremy Irvine and Phoebe Fox. They are ok, but not as good as Radcliffe was in the first one.

Secondly, they tried to develop the back-story but there wasn’t a lot there so it felt like they stretched it out and it got way too thin. I honestly felt they gave me enough information in the original film, so this story never really captured me. And the whole theme of children being killed by a ghost is a little to unsettling for me.

Director Tom Harper has made several short films, but it appears he was in over his head in this director’s chair. I thought the pace was really slow and the “scares” were less intense.

Finally there is the demonic nature of the film. I generally don’t like horror films, but I especially don’t like ones with a demonic presence. As Christians it’s a good idea to steer clear of films that. So although we DON’T recommend your kids see this movie, we realize that in many situations you’ll have the opportunity to dialogue with kids who have already seen the film.

I didn’t like the film at all, so I’m giving it a “Skip It.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
No. While there is no sex or nudity and even the language is mild for a PG-13 film, there are several “jump scares” throughout the film and several disturbing images of a woman killing children.

CONVERSATION STARTER:

1. What are some things that scare you?


2. What was Harry’s fear?


3. How did he overcome his fear?

Read Psalm 27:1

You, Lord, are the light that keeps me safe. I am not afraid of anyone. You protect me, and I have no fears.


4. How can faith in God help you overcome your fear?