Gremlins 2 : the new batch

Joe Dante's Gremlins 2: The New Batch isn't just a film; it's a revolutionary testament to the unbridled potential of cinematic creativity, a tour de force that defies genres, subverts expectations and is a daring triumph of anarchy and satire. Released in 1990, the film marks a turning point in Joe Dante's career, a moment when he threw off the shackles of conventional filmmaking to create a delirious masterpiece that redefines the limits of live-action cartoons.

The trajectory of Joe Dante's career is a fascinating journey through the realms of horror, humor and irreverence. Dante's first six films, including the iconic Gremlins (1984), demonstrate his talent for blending horror with humor, a delicate balance that resonates with audiences. However, events after 1991 led to a slowdown in Dante's output, with only a handful of films left until 2014. Gremlins 2 was the definitive turning point, a film which, despite its financial failure, remains a beacon of Dante's unrivalled creativity.

In terms of film music, Jerry Goldsmith's iconic The Gremlin Rag undergoes a transformation in the sequel. While the original's slap-stick anthem is appreciated, The New Batch's evolved orchestration serves as a backdrop to the film's heightened chaos. It's a subtle change, a nod to the fact that this sequel is not simply a continuation, but an unhesitating departure into uncharted territories of cinematic expression.

The narrative, or rather the lack of it, revolves around the Clamp Centre, an elegant skyscraper in the heart of New York. It's here that Dante, with screenwriter Charlie Haas, unleashes a satirical hurricane on corporate America, media moguls and the absurdities of modern life. John Glover's Daniel Clamp, a Trumpian figure obsessed with shiny new things, becomes a canvas for Dante's scathing commentary on unbridled capitalism and societal values.

The central characters, Billy and Kate, return from the original, but Dante deliberately sidelines them, bringing the real stars to the fore: the Gremlins. Designed by the legendary Rick Baker, these mischievous creatures transform the company tower into a veritable playground. Dante blurs the boundaries between horror and comedy, presenting the Gremlins as a grayer version of the anarchic Muppets, embodying childlike mischief and disorder.

Gremlins 2 is a vibrant collage of pop culture references, a buffet of homage and satire. From playful nods to Looney Tunes cartoons to cheeky swipes at Rambo, Batman and even film critics, the film is a jubilant celebration of its time. Its manic energy and fast-paced gags, reminiscent of Golden Age Looney Tunes, contribute to the film's unconventional storytelling.

Although it departs from the small-town Christmas charm of the original film, Gremlins 2: The New Batch transcends expectations. Joe Dante's ability to create a live-action cartoon that captures the spirit of anarchic animation is unsurpassed. The film is a Holy Grail in the realm of unconventional sequels, a rebellious brushstroke in the great tapestry of cinema. It defies categorization, remains a testament to Joe Dante's unbridled imagination and remains a cinematic rebellion that continues to captivate audiences with its audacious charm.

Gremlins 2: The New Batch
Directed by Joe Dante
Written by Charles S. Haas
Based on Characters created by Chris Columbus
Produced by Michael Finnell
Starring Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, John Glover, Robert J. Prosky, Robert Picardo, Christopher Lee
Cinematography : John Hora
Edited by Kent Beyda
Music by Jerry Goldsmith
Production company : Amblin Entertainment
Distributed by Warner Bros.
Release date : June 15, 1990 (United States), August 22, 1990 (France)
Running time : 106 minutes

Viewed December 24, 1990 (Warner Bros. DVD)
Reviewed December 24, 2024 (Blu-ray Warner Bros)

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