REC 2 (2009)

“REC 2” is the sequel to the internationally acclaimed horror filmed “REC”, which in turn directly inspired the American remake known as “Quarantine” (reviewed 4/21/13). This film takes place immediately after “REC” ends, focusing on a small group of SWAT-like police team and their CDC-like advisor. Once they enter the building, they are only allowed back out with the voice command of their advisor. The advisor turns out to be a covert operative for the Vatican and is there to retrieve a blood sample of the girl who is ultimately responsible for the chaos that is occurring. When they lose the first sample they find, they eventually find the girl herself, losing team members in the process. The team also comes across a group of teens who snuck into the building…because that’s what teens do. Some more people die, the reporter is found, and shaky-cam moments continue non-stop.

It seems that the infected inhabitants of the apartment building are possessed by demonic powers because they were exposed to this girl. Note – this is where the American version and Spanish versions differ; the American version is about a biological virus and the Spanish version is about a religious based virus?!? Soooo, I lost interest in this movie pretty quickly when the teens were introduced. I also didn’t like the religious reasons for why everything was happening. However, what I did enjoy was the SWAT-like team and how they used their cameras in the movie. Overall I thought it was mediocre film at best and the weakest of the Spanish movies I’m reviewing this week.