The slasher horror genre has captivated fans ever since Eli Roth released the mock trailer for Grindhouse. With the release of the actual movie, anticipation has been building for a potential sequel called Thanksgiving 2.
Renowned director Eli Roth, known for his work on Hostel and Cabin Fever, has crafted a terrifying holiday horror film that is guaranteed to leave audiences horrified. In Dexerto's review of Thanksgiving, they applaud the film for its graphic and meticulously crafted murders committed by the infamous serial killer, John Carver.
Haunted by the devastating occurrences of Black Friday from the previous year, the primary protagonists find themselves invited to be the main course at John Carver's Thanksgiving feast. Jessica (portrayed by Nell Verlaque), her acquaintances, and her loved ones must struggle to stay alive before time runs out.
The plot keeps fans guessing the identity of the person hidden behind the mask. As the story concludes, it leaves viewers on edge, eagerly anticipating what awaits in a potential Thanksgiving 2. Caution: Spoilers ahead!
Thanksgiving 2 could bring back the killer
The conclusion of Thanksgiving is unresolved, as authorities are unable to locate John Carver (also known as Sheriff Newlon) following Jessica's explosion to escape. Additionally, Eli Roth is interested in the possibility of creating Thanksgiving 2.
John Carner's reign may not be over yet, possibly leading to a Thanksgiving 2. After discovering that Sheriff Newlon (played by Patrick Dempsey) is the murderer and live-streaming his confession, Jessica manages to flee with the assistance of Bobby (portrayed by Jalen Thomas Brooks). In an attempt to hinder their pursuer, they hop into a tow truck. As part of her plan, Jessica activates the valve, inflating one of the turkey inflatables from the parade.
However, Sheriff Newlon quickly secures the truck to a metal rig, preventing their escape. In a moment of desperation, Jessica spots a musket rifle, a prop hinted at earlier in the movie. Seizing the opportunity as Sheriff Newlon inches closer to the almost fully inflated inflatable, she fires the rifle. This causes a combustion of the gases inside the inflatable, resulting in an explosion. It is believed to have fatally injured Sheriff Newlon, allowing Jessica and Bobby to make their getaway.
Afterwards, the fire department took the burned inflatable away. There is speculation that Sheriff Newlon's body might be inside it. However, a firefighter informs an officer that it is unlikely anyone could have survived the explosion, suggesting that they were unable to locate his body. Later that night, Jessica lies in bed with Ryan (Milo Manheim), unable to fall asleep. She becomes increasingly anxious about her closet. Desperate to ease her fears, she gets out of bed to check, only to find nothing suspicious. In a chilling twist, the Thanksgiving festivities conclude with a horrifying sight - a charred and scorched Sheriff Newlon emerging from fiery flames, lunging at Jessica.
The cliffhanger serves as a reminder of Jessica's haunting trauma or a potential hint at Sheriff Newlon's survival, possibly returning as John Carver in Thanksgiving 2. In an interview with The Boston Globe, Eli Roth expressed his enthusiasm for creating a sequel, stating, "I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in that world. There's so much more I want to explore, but ultimately, it's up to the fans."
“If people come out and they go see the movie, I will dive back in and I will try to outdo myself with a sequel,” he said.
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Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am eagerly anticipating the release of Thanksgiving 2. The first movie was a thrilling slasher horror film that left me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. I am excited to see what Eli Roth has in store for us in the sequel.
I think the cliffhanger ending of the first movie was a great way to set up a sequel. It left me wondering what happened to John Carver and whether or not he would return. I am also curious to see how Jessica and her friends will deal with the trauma of what they experienced. I think Thanksgiving 2 has the potential to be even better than the first movie, and I can't wait to see it!