Donβt Breathe 2 (2021) is a horror-thriller film and a sequel to the 2016 film Donβt Breathe, directed by Rodo Sayagues, who co-wrote the script with Fede Γlvarez. While the first film followed a group of burglars trying to rob a blind manβs house, only to face his deadly skills and survival tactics, Donβt Breathe 2 takes a somewhat different approach, expanding on the story of the mysterious blind man, Norman Nordstrom (played by Stephen Lang).
Set eight years after the events of the first film, Donβt Breathe 2 introduces a new premise. Norman has been living in isolation with a young girl named Phoenix (played by Madelyn Grace), who was rescued by him from a house fire years earlier. Norman has been raising her as his adopted daughter, and they live in a secluded home. The film shifts the focus from a group of invaders to a different type of threat when a group of criminals abduct Phoenix, intending to sell her to the highest bidder.
The plot centers around Normanβs determination to protect Phoenix at all costs, with the story revolving around his pursuit of the kidnappers and his willingness to use any means necessary to get her back. As in the first film, Normanβs skills as a ruthless and highly capable survivor are on full display, but this time, the narrative paints him as a more sympathetic character, despite his morally questionable past.
The film dives into the concept of redemption, with Norman seeking to atone for his past actions while simultaneously showcasing his violent and survivalist tendencies. His relationship with Phoenix adds a new layer to his character, highlighting his complex nature. However, his past actions, especially his involvement with the events of the first film, continue to haunt him, and the film raises questions about whether he is capable of redemption or if his violent nature is irredeemable.
Much like the first movie, Donβt Breathe 2 focuses on suspense and tension, with several high-stakes action sequences in which Norman uses his heightened senses (particularly his hearing) to track and confront the criminals. The claustrophobic atmosphere, where the majority of the film takes place in tight spaces, creates a sense of unease and vulnerability. The audience is kept on edge, unsure of whether Norman is truly a hero or a villain, as his actions push the boundaries of morality.
Donβt Breathe 2 also explores themes of survival, trauma, and morality. Normanβs desire to protect Phoenix at all costs shows his human side, but his willingness to commit horrific acts to achieve his goal calls into question the extent to which one can justify such actions in the name of love or protection. The moral ambiguity of his character creates a nuanced conflict in the film, leaving the viewer to decide whether they sympathize with him or feel disturbed by his choices.
Stephen Lang reprises his role as Norman, delivering a chilling and intense performance, which continues to cement his status as a unique anti-hero in modern horror cinema. The filmβs direction and pacing emphasize suspense, with well-choreographed scenes that highlight Normanβs strategic approach to violence and his ability to navigate the world despite his blindness.
In terms of horror elements, Donβt Breathe 2 features intense sequences of suspense, gore, and psychological tension, maintaining the feeling of danger throughout the narrative. However, the film shifts the dynamic by placing Norman in the position of a protector, not simply a vengeful character as in the first film. This change in perspective allows for a more complex and morally ambiguous story, making the audience question what lengths one should go to for survival and what actions might be justified in extreme situations.