This wishy-washy sequel to the horror hit Insidious barely ever unsettles its captive audience

Insidious: Chapter 2 kills time slowly for those who need a few undemanding shocks to their senses but it's not a worthwhile option for anyone else

The Lambert family, played Barbara Hershey, Patrick Wilson, Ty Simpkins and Rose Byrne, return in Insidious: Chapter 2.

INSIDIOUS: CHAPTER 2 (M)

Rating: 2 stars

Director: James Wan (The Conjuring)

Starring: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey, Angus Sampson

A weak, wishy-washy sequel to the 2010 horror hit Insidious settles for more of the same, while barely ever unsettling its captive audience.

When it comes to haunted houses, people with possessed spirits on their person, and children's toys with a mind of their own, you've seen it done better countless times before.

Such as in director James Wan's infinitely superior previous film, The Conjuring.

Chapter 2 picks up right after the conclusion of the first Insidious. Josh Lambert (played by Patrick Wilson) has returned from the demonic universe known as The Further with his little boy Dalton (Ty Simpkins) safe.

The Lambert family is soon making tracks for the residence of Josh's mum Lorraine (Barbara Hershey). Wouldn't you just know it? Her place is just as spooked out as the one they left behind.

Josh's wife Renai (Rose Byrne) suspects all is not well with her hubby. Lorraine reckons he might have had some paranormal problems in his childhood.

In the interests of light relief, goofy ghostbusters Tucker (Angus Sampson) and Specs (Leigh Whannell) also drop in.

Overall, Insidious: Chapter 2 kills time slowly for those who need a few undemanding shocks to their senses, but it's not really a worthwhile option for anyone else.