In the vast universe of the Halloween franchise, numerous death scenes have left audiences shocked. Spanning 13 films, this iconic horror series mainly features Michael Myers, a character synonymous with horror. While Myers has an infamous record of over 80 kills, the death of Ben Tramer in *Halloween II* stands out as particularly disturbing.
Ben Tramer’s Disturbing Death in Halloween II
Released on October 30, 1981, *Halloween II* serves as a direct continuation of the original film. As the story unfolds, Michael Myers continues his relentless pursuit of Laurie Strode. Amidst this chaos, a tragic blunder results in the horrifying death of Ben Tramer.
A Misunderstanding Leads to Horror
Tramer, a 17-year-old trick-or-treater, coincidentally wears a mask and jumpsuit reminiscent of Myers. This resemblance leads to a catastrophic mistake by Dr. Loomis and Sheriff Brackett. Mistaking Tramer for the notorious killer, they pursue him with deadly intent.
- Ben Tramer is a classmate of Laurie Strode.
- During the chase, Tramer runs into the street in fear.
- A police car, speeding to catch him, strikes Tramer, pinning him against a van.
- The car explodes, resulting in a slow and horrific death by fire.
This shocking sequence of events is not directly caused by Michael Myers, making it unique within the franchise. Moreover, the aftermath reveals a grim narrative; Tramer’s death goes unpunished, with little mention of him after the initial incident.
The Impact of Ben Tramer’s Death
The horrific nature of Tramer’s demise resonates deeply, especially given the context of Halloween and trick-or-treating. The concept of a child suffering such a fate raises unsettling questions about accountability and justice. The lack of consequence for the Haddonfield police adds to the horror of the scene, highlighting the unpredictability of violence in a seemingly safe environment.
Halloween II and Its Significance in the Franchise
Despite the developments in 11 subsequent films, *Halloween II* remains a standout sequel. Its connection to the original film is palpable, as John Carpenter returns to write and score it. The film further develops key characters and introduces important plot twists, including the relationship between Michael Myers and Laurie Strode.
In contrast, later films in the franchise, especially those in the latest trilogy by David Gordon Green, faced criticism for their storyline and execution. Halloween fans often believe the series would have benefitted from a stronger link to the earlier film’s themes.
Conclusion
The Halloween franchise is steeped in memorable encounters and brutal kills. However, the death of Ben Tramer in *Halloween II* remains its most disturbing moment. This tragic incident not only showcases the horror that can arise from misunderstanding but also reflects the larger themes of violence and accountability within the series.
