5 reasons The Strangers: Prey at Night is a success

The Strangers: Prey at Night marks the return of masked murderers and manages to surpass the horrors of the original film.

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The sequel to the 2008 slasher film has been a project in development for years, but graciously came to fruition at a moment in time when the genre needed it. Initially, it tends to follow the pattern of its predecessor but it takes a tonal shift relatively early to alter any preconceived notions. The Strangers: Prey at Night truly is a horror film that exceeds expectations and satisfies on every level – so we’ve compiled the top five reasons behind its success.

5 – An eerie atmosphere

While the first film mostly took place within a vacation home, the isolated feeling created by a misty mobile home park made any sense of security impossible. Whether outside in the dark or inside the claustrophobic trailers, the family had little protection that was instantly tangible.

4 -Just the right amount of throwbacks

The sequel happily integrated scenes that were reminiscent of the first – such as the knock on the door with doll-face asking “is Tamara home?” The murders’ truck, same trio and even the bloody messages left behind, were all nice nods to what made the movie creepy to begin with. It then took a step further, managing to find its own footing while respecting the essence of the first film.

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3 – A strong group of characters

The film introduces the troubled family in the midst of their own quarrels, but when facing danger they truly show growth. Bailee Madison becomes quite the epic hero after beginning the film with overt angst, and her brother, played by Lewis Pullman, displayed courage and maturity becoming an instant standout. Overall, whether a protagonist or antagonist there was enough on both ends of the spectrum to establish strong characters.

2 – The stalking intensifies

Very early on, The Strangers: Prey at Night makes it obvious that the title is the precise approach behind the film. Though the family may have outnumbered the killers, the trio familiarize themselves with the park enough to really keep an eye on their “prey” at all time. Up until the final clash, there really is a heightened level of paranoia that proves with every move they make, they risk their chances of survival.

1 – An unexpected outcome

As a sequel, not many films manage to surprise audiences like Prey at Night has efficiently done. At several points in the film, you may feel like the story is headed one way with extreme momentum but drastically shifts to keep you on the edge of your seat. With every prediction I had, I was quickly met with twists that changed the possible outcomes on a regular basis. By the film’s conclusion, it went a direction that made for a very satisfying ending and showed that slasher films still have what it takes to continue the horror craze.

Next: First look at The Strangers: Prey at Night

The Strangers: Prey at Night is in theatres now, so be sure to check it out for a chance to enjoy an instant cult classic.

What did you think of The Strangers: Prey at Night? Is it one for the history books? Share your thoughts in the comments below.