Demon Squad has garnered quite a cult following since its release. Original co-writer/director Thomas Smith and co-writer/star Erin Lilley return to the paranormal with Demon Squad: Tooth And Claw. The star of the first entry, Khristian Fulmer, returns as the lead of the so-called “Demon Squad.” Devon Coleman is new to the sequel, coming aboard to help write the script. Was re-entering the realm of ghouls and demons the right thing to do?
Supernatural detective Nick (Fulmer) and his partner, Daisy (Lilley), are riding high after their successful last mission. Of course, money is still tight, and Nick is as surly as ever. But when three murders with no clues left behind occur, the deputy mayor, Ingram (Michael Anthony Bagozzi), brings on Nick and Daisy to help solve the case. But there’s a catch: Nick’s use of magic is killing him.
Unfortunately, that is not the paranormal sleuths’ only troubles. Fake psychic Chari Divine (Victoria Antonelli) is all over the news, stirring fear and hysteria. Then there’s the matter of a demon hunting Nick for a perceived slight. Geez, can’t a man with access to mystical abilities and uses them against evil entities catch a break?
The first film was a fun, low-budget actioner with decent make-up and a cool world. But there’s a reason Mystery Science Theater 3000 riffed it. The lighting was harsh, to say the least. The mix of comedy and action was meh. Nick was too down and grumpy to be interesting. Don’t misunderstand: I appreciate what Smith was going for by mixing Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Burn Notice, but it only worked some of the time. However, Demon Squad: Tooth And Claw is a true step up in every way. It feels like a follow-up in that no one’s personality does a 180, but there’s more nuance, more money, and a stronger story at play.
“…Ingram brings on Nick and Daisy to help solve the case. But there’s a catch: Nick’s use of magic is killing him.”
Nick is still surly and quick to take nothing seriously. But both the writing and the acting make him slightly softer, with his quips being more clearly a self-defense mechanism. It is a small change, but it allows all watching to empathize and like the lead more than in the first film. Seriously, Fulmer gets to show off his range as an actor much more so here. He balances the action, drama, comedy, and reactions to the film’s wild world in a lively way.
Daisy also gets a fun upgrade. Her husband has more to do, which allows the two to interact regularly and grounds the story in something real. Lilley also gets some of the best lines and nails their delivery with pitch-perfect comedic timing. The addition of Chari is a stroke of brilliance. Admittedly, Chari’s first appearance is nothing short of obnoxious, though that is the point. Antonelli plays the part with the right amount of obliviousness and innocent charm. It certainly helps that she and Fulmer share very good chemistry, which helps sell story beats.
But it is the better effects and more ambitious plot that make Demon Squad: Tooth And Claw a whole grade level above the first film. The effects are better integrated into the scenes and look crisper. This is especially true of a device that becomes so central to everything. The makeup now allows for clearer facial expressions and enunciation when a demon or similar creature speaks. The way the plot, which involves cryptozoological creatures like dogmen, expands the in-film universe in a fun way that still feels natural to what was previously set up.
Demon Squad: Tooth And Claw amps up works about its predecessor. Smith and company wisely make minor changes to make the characters and world more accessible to everyone. Now the comedy and action complement each other in a more fun way. The acting is better, with all involved perfectly portraying their respective characters. If you liked Demon Squad, then you will love this sequel.
For screening information, visit the Demon Squad: Tooth And Claw official website.
"…amps up works about its predecessor."
