Watch Trilogy of Terror II

Trilogy of Terror II is a 1996 horror anthology film that comprises three distinct tales of terror that range from horrific to gruesome to downright terrifying. Starring Lysette Anthony, Geraint Wyn Davies, and Matt Clark, this film is a sequel to the 1975 horror anthology film Trilogy of Terror. The first tale, He Who Kills, tells the chilling story of an anthropologist named Dr. Simpson (played by Davies) who is fascinated with a legend of a murderous Zuni spirit doll. Fascinated with the powers of the doll, Dr. Simpson makes the grave mistake of removing the protective chain that holds the doll’s potentially deadly spirit at bay. What ensues is an hour-long cat-and-mouse game between the good doctor and a merciless killer doll that is determined to take Simpson’s life.

The second story, “Bobby,” is a horror thriller that centers on a young couple, Carol (played by Anthony) and Jack (played by Matt Clark), who’re struggling to deal with their relationship. When Jack heads out of town on business, Carol finds it the perfect time to exact revenge on Bobby, Jack’s beloved dog, who she believes has been interfering with their relationship. In a momentary fit of rage and desperation, Carol poisons Bobby and prepares to dispose of the evidence. However, in a twist of events, Bobby returns, undead and out for revenge on his now-doomed owner.

The final tale, “Heads,” is an exercise in psychological horror that is arguably the most harrowing and unsettling tale of the three. It’s the story of a wealthy, middle-aged couple, Martha and Richard, whose relationship is on the brink of collapse. One day, while Richard is out of town on business, Martha buys herself a life-like artificial human head as a replacement for her husband. However, as she begins to use the head for companionship and interaction, things start to spiral out of control, and the head begins to take control of her life.

As is typical with horror anthologies, each of the three stories features its twists and thrilling conclusions. In He Who Kills, director Dan Curtis ratchets up the suspense, expertly manipulating the silence to create a sense of impending doom. “Bobby” takes a more traditional horror route where director Michael Hurst expertly mixes gore and dark humor to spin a tale that is effectively chilling and unsettling. And in “Heads,” director Marc Voizard takes an already unsettling concept and cranks up the nightmare fuel with a gripping and claustrophobic climax.

Perhaps the most remarkable thing about Trilogy of Terror II is how every tale is uniquely crafted and evokes a different emotion. It’s a testament to the filmmakers’ talents that they’re able to keep the audience engaged throughout the film while exploring different themes and emotions.

In the end, the film is anchored by strong performances from the entire cast. Lysette Anthony, who plays Carol in “Bobby,” is the standout performer with her emotive portrayal of a woman on the brink of madness. Geraint Wyn Davies is also impressive as the ill-fated Dr. Simpson, while Matt Clark delivers a memorable performance as the devoted dog owner who underestimates the bond between a pet and their owner.

All in all, Trilogy of Terror II is a horror anthology that delivers the thrills and chills that any horror enthusiast could ask for. It’s a worthy successor to the original film and stands on its own as a classic of the genre.