Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween is a fun and not-too-scary Halloween flick with several messages families can discuss after the movie. Goosebumps 2 does not pick up where the first movie left off, although there is some overlap. Instead, we begin with new characters with their own dilemmas and aspirations. We meet a working single mom, a college-bound teen named Sarah, her scientific-minded brother Sonny, and Sonny’s ambitious friend Sam. The characters are all very likable and viewers quickly become invested in their struggles and experiences.
While on a potentially money-making excursion, Sonny and Sam accidentally bring the evil dummy Slappy to life. Sam and Sonny’s first experiences with Slappy in Goosebumps 2 are funny. They think they have found a friend and they revel in the powers that he demonstrates. However, like so many evils which initially appear attractive, Slappy soon shows his true colors. By the time the kids realize the danger they have allowed to enter their lives, they are in too deep. This is where the first post-movie discussion opportunity presents itself. Once the danger becomes clear, Sonny does something that most of these types of movies do not have their characters do; he calls his mom. In fact, the kids try to tell their mom what is happening early on. As a mom, I appreciated this because too many movies and TV shows model children keeping secrets from parents and trying to save themselves.
The second post-movie discussion opportunity comes within Sarah’s story-line. Sarah struggles to tell her story, value herself, and find her way. Ironically, her college entrance essay deals with fear and it is her experience with Slappy and his minions that helps her find her way. The movie does not necessarily end the way you might expect early on and Sarah plays a crucial role.
Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween contains some mild profanity and a brief scene of teenage infidelity. The movie has its scary moments, but is not gory and is not a horror film. In short, Goosebumps 2 is a fun fall movie the family can enjoy together. But parents, do not miss out on the chance to talk about the many issues that come up in the movie (untrustworthy boyfriends, honesty with your parents, not keeping secrets, personal responsibility, and more!).
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Scene after the credits: No, but there is some fun character imagery during the first half of the credits.
Running time: 90 minutes
Rated PG for scary creature action and images, some thematic elements, rude humor and language
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