The main concept behind HDD2U is so far from left-field, it does a decent job of recreating the film in a new light. At first the continuity comes from the return of the four main characters from the first edition before the film loses focus from too many different plot lines.

Jessica Rothe as the blonde heroine Tree Gelbman, Ruby Modine as the homicidal roommate Lori Spengler, Rachel Matthews as the sorority sister Danielle Bouseman and Israel Broussard as the man of the hour Carter Davis do their best to hold things together but the charm from the first is not as readily apparent.

For those that have a limited memory of the first film, there is a montage that will bring you quickly up to speed. The first Happy Death Day was a surprisingly fun romp with a simple concept and a good number of thrills, the sequel has its moments but try as it might, it never really measures up to the original.

Rob Hudson
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She must also face a revenge-seeking Lori, who has been resurrected by the power of the time loop!

Happy Death Day 2 is in Australian cinemas February 14, 2019!
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Set in the class system of college sororities and with all the rubbish that entails intact, Tree slowly turns from a self involved brat to a more compassionate individual. This transformation gives the film a bit more heart than most of the genre but it also reduces the number of surprises that await the viewer. The final reveal also lacks a bit in that department.

While the sides are drawn early between the giving good guys and the merely self involved, this lack of adventurist character development does little to dampen the fun. There are times when it’s fun just to go with the flow.

The film has an effective pace, doesn’t overstay its welcome and is far less gruesome that its trailer would lead you to believe. All in all, it’s a pleasant bit of escapism.

Rob Hudson
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Happy Death Day is directed by Christopher Landon (Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones) and stars Jessica Rothe, Israel Broussard and Ruby Modine – in cinemas October 12!
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