kclipper This is probably my favorite film in the "Phantasm" series, and not to mention one of my favorite films during the VHS revolution of the 1980's and early 90's. The sequel to the cult classic "Phantasm" contains all of the campy weirdness and comical elements that made that era so significant for true horror film fans. Taking place much later after the events of the first film, an already grown Mike (James Le Gros) is released from the Morningside psychiatric facility unconvinced that the "Tall Man" (Angus Scrimm) and his dwarf minions are products of his imagination. He must persuade his long-time friend and companion Reggie Bannister that the events from 8 years ago were in fact a reality. After Reggie's house explodes along with his entire family, its time to hit the road with the classic 1971 black HemiCuda 426 and shopping carts full of weapons to stop the Tall Man's quest to rob every grave and kill every person who inhabits the small towns of the North-western United States. This is classic 80's action-horror-comedy film-making with Director, Don Coscarelli once again at the helm for what is a wild, twisted and bizarre journey into skewered reality and fantasy. Every device from the original Phantasm is back and better including the flying killer silver spheres which get much more screen time in this chapter. A likable cast is in top form including Mike's love interest (Paula Irvine) whom he as a psychic link with and the unfortunate Father Meyers (Kenneth Tigar). Reggie and Mike make a great team of hunters battling the forces of the undead with flamethrowers, chainsaws, modified shotguns and other various weapons. This has much more gore and bloodshed than the first film, and the relationships between the characters, (especially Mike and Liz) have good chemistry. There's never a dull moment, and plenty of comic relief make this a memorable addition to the ultra-weird world of Phantasm. Reggie and Angus return for Phantasm III in 1994.

Bezenby The Tall man and his balls are back (Err, that's not what it sounds like). This time the action is ramped up, the gore is plentiful, and one of the actors has been replaced. Reggie and Mike are out for revenge, and follow the Tall Man across America, with modified guns and a flamethrower. Looks like they're finally going to get to the bottom of the enigma of Phantasm, right? Wrong! What you do get is more flying spheres attacking folk, more weirdness, bigger set pieces, and a lot of fun. It's not quite up to the quality of the first film, but the sequel certainly holds its own. This time Michael's searching for a girl who's been dreaming about The Tall Man, who is getting bolder and emptying entire towns (not to mention the graveyards). It's hard to describe a plot which involves people chasing each other about, but this time our heroes have also got to contend with the Tall Man's assistants (all of whom meet very gory deaths). The film is a lot more linear than the last one, so 'linear' fans might get a kick out of that.

dworldeater The late 80's was a great time for sequels for classic 70's horror films. With The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Evil Dead getting really good , but different and effective sequels it was now Phantasm 's turn to resurface. While the previously mentioned franchises crossed comedy with horror , Phantasm II combines action with horror . Reggie and Michael ( replaced by James Le Gross) hit the road to find and kill The Tall Man. Armed with some cool weapons ( a 4 barrelled shotgun and a flamethrower ) our heroes can more than hold their own against the forces of evil. Reggie is a very tough and charismatic action hero with a cool car and stylish skullet to boot. Reggie and James Le Gross make a good team and have great chemistry. Plus there are hot chicks, great f/x , as well as great atmosphere, story and sci fi weirdness that made the first film great. Phantasm II is a great movie and an excellent follow up to the original film.

skybrick736 I have mixed thoughts and feelings toward Part II of the Phantasm series. Starting with the fact that this could have been a great counter part with all the potential it had going for them. The script was definitely there and I loved the road type feel that the movie provided. They brought the typical 80's feel and characters into this movie that we are used to seeing in horror films. However, the fact of not bringing the original Michael back for Part II is a huge let down. I suppose the producers wanted a more eye appealing male actor but I feel Mike Baldwin was terrific. The Tall Man had some great scenes and one liners which highlights the movie for myself. Interesting cast, dialogue and scifi Phantasm kills that I recommend for all horror fans to see.