On this day May 19, 1989, Fright Night Part 2 premiered in theaters as the sequel to the cult horror hit Fright Night. Directed by Tommy Lee Wallace, the film continued the story of Charley Brewster and Peter Vincent as they once again battled the undead. Returning stars included Roddy McDowall and William Ragsdale, joined by Traci Lind, Julie Carmen, Jon Gries, Brian Thompson and Merritt Butrick.
Fright Night Part 2 leaned deeper into camp and dark humor while still delivering vampire horror thrills. While it did not achieve the box office success or popularity of the original, it developed its own cult following and is remembered fondly by fans of 80s horror.
The movie faced a limited release and low promotion due to corporate changes at the studio, which contributed to its modest box office return of 2.9 million dollars.
Fun fact: This was the final theatrical film role for Merritt Butrick who sadly passed away in 1989.