I don’t always say this about sequels but, watching Happy Death Day (2017) is a requirement if you’re wanting to understand where Happy Death Day 2U came from as well as the likelihood of where it’ll end up. Blumhouse Productions has become a major player in the production of horror movies. Their niche seems to be centered around not need to break the bank to provide worthwhile enjoyment of films lacking large budgets or big name actors. We’re very early into 2019 and Universal Pictures is hoping that their partnership with Blumhouse will once again pay great dividends.

Tree (Jessica Rothe) has just gotten over the longest day EVER and now she’s right where she’s supposed to be. Tree has a new lease on life and her love life is trending in a positive direction with her new beau, Carter (Israel Broussard). Unfortunately, the more things change the more they stay the same. Even though the calendar has flipped forward a day (finally), some crazy changes are in store for this new day. When Ryan (Phi Vu) is murdered by a mysterious killer in a mask, his day reset and he’s now stuck in the deadly deja vu circle that Tree was trapped in…ummmm…yesterday. This time the rules have changed as have culprits. Happy Death Day 2U puts a remix spin on the murderous motives as those involved are literally back to square one to figure out who’s behind the mask this time. You’ll be dying to find out.

Happy Death Day 2U isn’t as unexpectedly fun as the 2017 original mainly because audiences won’t be caught off guard. This sequel follows a similar playbook, in that dying is the key to living. Been there, done that. What is different however, is that in addition to the horror and humor (more like slash and snicker), there’s the new addition of sci-fi. Christopher Landon isn’t afraid to mix things up as the writer and director. Having every single pivotal character back for round two is pretty spectacular in this day and age. When creating an illusion where continuity is paramount, having all of those familiar pieces in place allows for the audience to completely buy in to what you’re trying to sell.

With Jessica Rothe, Israel Broussard and Phi Vu handling the majority of the lead work, there’s still room for more solid performances. Suraj Sharma and Sarah Bennani are a couple of the new faces that you’ll see. Other returning actors such as Ruby Modine, Rachel Matthews, Charles Aitken and Laura Clifton are able to aid in a slightly different way if they so choose. And that is the appealing part of Happy Death Day 2U, it’s the same but at the same time it’s a very different experience. And there’s nothing wrong with this approach as it was successful the first time around, so why not try to capitalize on what works?

If you’re looking for jump scares or a creepy undertone, Happy Death Day 2U will most likely leave you wanting. On the other hand, if you’re seeking something that’s entertaining and fun while maintaining a small semblance of thrilling moments, look no further. While there’s nothing earth-shattering to speak of, the 100 minutes spent watching this sequel will fly by because of the fun factor and being kept on your toes as well as the edge of your seat. You can see the horror, mystery, sci-fi, thriller, comedy in theaters now. Last but not least, there is an additional scene during the credits so stay in your seats and enjoy the song Stayin’ Alive by Lizzo.