Movie review: Stir of Echoes 2: The Homecoming

Returning from the war in Iraq, Ted finds he is plagued by visions of the dead. But the visions seem to be sending him a message that could destroy, or save, his family and life.

Rob Lowe (Ted), Marnie McPhail (Molly), Ben Lewis (Max), Tatiana Maslany (Sammi), Shawn Roberts (Luke), Vik Sahay (Farzan), Colin Williams (Drexel), PJ Lazic (Nunez).

Stir of Echoes 2: The Homecoming begins well enough by showing us a bit about Ted's job while in Iraq. Back home, things get more interesting when Ted begins seeing ghosts. As the film progresses we find the whole Iraq war focus initially was a red herring with the story becoming more about Ted's confusion than anything else. While a solid plot twist keeps things moving and helps us feel better about the film in the end, it also felt a bit misleading. None of which helps the film develop desperately needed energy and engagement.

Lowe was okay in this one but felt a bit detached, which may have been his character and not his skills. McPhail did okay but also felt a bit removed and some of her reactions felt transparent. Lewis was mildly more engaging, while the remainder of the cast felt somewhat dry.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were mild but appropriate. Washed out choppy flashback scenes were decent and got their point across. Action scenes were nicely done with good energy and impact. Dialogue was mediocre and could have done more to add depth and energy. Sound was decent while the soundtrack felt out of place.

While Stir of Echoes 2: The Homecoming may not be a great horror thriller, it is a decent entry level horror flick with a reasonably good plot. Those who enjoy more mild horror should enjoy this one.

With some intense violence, foul language, and disturbing images, save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 2007
Reviewed: 1.6.16
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Thriller, Horror Thriller, Supernatural Horror, Supernatural Thriller

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel