Creepshow 2

 Although "CREEPSHOW 2" literally died at the boxoffice, those who take a chance with this dvd presentation will most likely become fans. 

Because the predecessor, "CREEPSHOW" fared poorly in its initial theatrical run, the budget to "CREEPSHOW 2" appears to be even more drastically reduced.  However, that didn't stop Director Michael Gornick and George Romero's adaptation of Stephen King's short stories from achieving some good thrills here!  The animation introducing each of the three short films here is actually an improvement over the previous film.  Similar in layout to the first film, "CREEPSHOW 2" offers three short films.  "Ol' Chief WoodenHead" is a tale of a cigar store indian statuette seeking revenge, and it's the weakest of the films, so viewers will be pleased to get through it first.  The 2nd film, "The Raft" is the best of the films.  While its dreadful background rock music wears on the listener, this is a well-crafted thriller, demonstrating the real potential of a good story and fine direction.  In it, young hormonally challenged pot-smoking college kids venture out to a secluded lake.  No one knows they're there, and after swimming out to a raft, they realize that a blob of flesh-eating goo has surrounded them and is playing a waiting game as the day grows old.  In spite of the obvious low-budget, "THE RAFT" succeeds as a real thriller on many levels.  The acting is decent.  But, the direction, editing, and cinematography, are all outstanding!  The last tale, "THE HITCHHIKER" has some thrills to, but it's ultimately too predictable in spots.  While all three of the tales are entertaining, "THE CRAFT" is so good, that it actually causes this reviewer to recommend the dvd with the comment, "ONE OUT OF THREE ISN'T BAD!
ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT  has presented the film with an outstanding transfer!  The correct 1.85:1 aspect ratio is intact with 16:9 enhancement.  Although there is some minor pixellation in spots, the color values are strong without any oversaturation.  The contrast is also impressive with deep blacks and grays!  Definition is apparent in even the frequently dark scenes. 

The Dolby Digital 2.0 mono sound is fine.  The fidelity is actually quite good, with even the horrible rock music sounding free of distortion.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free of distortion. 

The film's original theatrical trailer is included.