Tremors 2 - Aftershocks (1996)

Usually, a sequel can only pale in comparison to an original. Sometimes, however, it can almost be on the same level and that is the case with 'Tremors 2'. The first one was a very original horrorcomedy and this one continues along those lines, with some added twists and turns to keep it a little fresh.

Yes, this one, like the first one, is a lot of fun.

It's been several years since the first Graboid-invasion. But down in Mexico, near an oil-field, not all is well. The proprietors want to hire Earl Bassett, because he has become famous thanks to the events of the first film. Earl is down on his luck after a few bad investments, but he is still hesitant. However, the large sum of money promised to him does persuade him eventually. When in Mexico, he soon discovers there are a lot more graboids than he bargained for, so he enlists the help of gun nut Burt Gummer. But there is something afoot, and the worms evolve into a whole new kind of creature.

You see, that is a fun way to do a sequel: start with things you already know, but expand on it and throw the audience for a loop by changing gears. It keeps this one interesting, because right when you think you have seen it all, the story changes with the stakes. The characters in the film even reference this, as well as several things from the first one. They are eventually just as in the dark as we are, so that can make for some whole new tension.

Right off the bat, this one goes more for the comedy angle. The first film was also funny at times, but this one does that even more. It is a good choice, because the whole premisse is silly to start with anyway. Fred Ward plays it wonderfully, but there is no denying that Michael Gross as Burt Gummer is at times hilarious. He is also the more prominent character this time around, and it does make sense that the rest of the sequels were centred around his character.

The special affects are still very well done and a lot of it is still practical, even though there are some CG shots that do stick out. But considering this film had a paltry budget of only 4 million dollars (which is next to nothing for an effects driven monsterfilm), it's bloody poetry. The filmmakers make every penny visible on screen and it is this effort that makes this such a fun watch. The characters are engaging and enjoyable, the dialogue is witty, with plenty of jokes that land, and when the film is supposed to be tense, it is, even taking into account the idea that the worms have now evolved into something rather different.

I will not spoil what it is. No.

The sequels after this one do suffer in terms of quality, but seeing as the budget kept getting smaller and you can only tell a tale like this maybe two times without it getting stale or predictable, that is no surprise. But you could do a lot worse for your enjoyment than watch the first two 'Tremors'-films in a row.