While most of the best Horror films of the ‘80s era were made during the earlier part of the decade, later entries like 1988’s Night of the Demons stood out quite boldly. Directly by Kevin S. Tenney, the film had an eerie, dark atmosphere, matched with a theme that few at the time touched on, demons. Sure, you had 1981’s The Evil Dead and 1987’s Evil Dead II, 1985’s Demons, and 1986’s Demons 2, but beyond these, you seldom saw the idea of demon possession ever featured in ‘80s Horror films. Even to this day, it is a sub-genre hardly ever approached, making Tenney’s Night of the Demons very much the standard.
Having the same Horror with dark humor atmosphere as 1985’s The Return of the Living Dead, Night of the Demons also featured a great cast of memorable characters; such as Linnea Quigley as Suzanne, Cathy Podewell as Judy, William Gallo as Sal Romero, Alvin Alexis as Rodger, Hal Havins as Stooge, and of course, Amelia Kinkade as Angela Franklin. Some of the key figures, together created a movie Horror fans adore. Overcoming a limited reach, due to a regional theatrical release as opposed to a nationwide one, to many, it is considered one of the best Horror flicks from the ‘80s.
With this all in mind, when Night of the Demons arrived at the tail-end of the ‘80s, few ever thought there would be a sequel, but in 1994, Night of the Demons 2 emerged from the darkness. This time directed by Brian Trenchard-Smith (known for a list of fan-favorites including 1983’s BMX Bandits and 1986’s Dead End Drive-in), returning was Amelia Kinkade to portray the super demonic Angela Franklin. A great way to create some continuity with the original classic, Kinkade’s reprisal was perfect; solidifying the black wedding dress-wearing Angela Franklin as one of Horror fans’ favorite characters. Beyond this, Podewell’s Judy and Alexis’ Rodger were the sole survivors of the original film but did not return for this sequel. Taking the story in a new direction, Night of the Demons 2 picks up six years after the infamous demon party at Hull House with a new list of characters in tow.
Here you have a lineup of Catholic school kids pinned against the forces of evil; highlighted by Cristi Harris (Night of the Scarecrow 1995, The Healer 2020) as Bibi, Robert Jayne (Small Wonder series, Tremors 1990) as Perry, Christine Taylor (The Brandy Bunch Movie 1995, The Wedding Singer 1998) as Terri, Johnny Moran (Pleasantville 1998, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine series) as Johnny, and Merle Kennedy (Bubble Boy 2001, May 2002) as Angela’s innocent little sister, Melissa “Mouse” Franklin. Each brings something new to the table, and joining them you also have Jennifer Rhodes (Heathers 1988, Charmed series) perfectly playing Sister Gloria, well-equipped and ready to kick some demon butt.
Given a limited theatrical release in California on May 14, 1994, a few months later, on August 31st, it arrived on VHS in local video stores. From here it slowly found a fanbase, and almost universally those who loved Night of the Demons agree it is a respectable sequel. Featuring some well-crafted special effects by Steve Johnson (who went on to work on 1995’s Species, as well as 2002’s Blade II), equally complimentary is the screenplay which pays homage to the original film. Yes, nothing can top the ominous mood of Night of the Demons, Night of the Demons 2 is no insult to its core audience.
Thirty years later, there are several options to visit/revisit the film; including the DVD release via Lionsgate in 2007, the widescreen DVD and Blu-ray put out by Olive Films in 2013, as well as the most recently released Collector’s Edition from Shout! Factory in October of 2023 (purchase it here). With plenty of ways to view it, it is highly recommended to look into the 2023 Blu-ray; because it features a new transfer, plus an extended version of the film never seen before.
When it is all said and done Night of the Demons 2 is one of the better early ‘90s sequels looking to continue stories of famed ‘80s films. In fact, it even paved the way for a third film, 1997’s Night of the Demons 3. Three decades later you are invited to join the party at Hull House… but do not expect to get out alive!
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