Overview
- FandomWire hails the sequel as bigger, bolder and scarier, while Variety calls it flat-out bad with slapdash filmmaking.
- Reviewers highlight the practical monster work, with the Jim Henson Creature Shop’s animatronics singled out as a standout visual element.
- Both critiques frame the movie as PG-13 horror geared toward younger gamer audiences, with debate over the effectiveness of its scares.
- Supportive notices point to expanded lore and game mechanics woven into the storytelling, including explicit nods longtime fans will recognize.
- The film opens in theaters on December 5 with returning leads Josh Hutcherson, Piper Rubio and Elizabeth Lail, a brief appearance from Matthew Lillard, Emma Tammi back as director and a script by creator Scott Cawthon, plus voice turns including Megan Fox.