Evil Dead Rise (2023) – Movie Review
Synopsis:
"Evil Dead Rise," directed by Lee Cronin, marks a fresh entry in the iconic "Evil Dead" franchise, which has long been a venerated pillar of the horror genre. The film opens in a secluded cabin in the woods, where we are reintroduced to the Necronomicon, a malevolent tome that unleashes unspeakable horrors upon its readers. This time, the story shifts from the traditional rural setting to the urban landscape of Los Angeles, where we follow two estranged sisters, Beth and Ellie.
Beth, played by Lily Sullivan, is a guitar technician who finds herself returning to her sister Ellie’s apartment in a run-down tenement with her three children, as Ellie, portrayed by Alyssa Sutherland, is struggling with life following her recent separation from her husband. In a poignant exploration of familial bonds and trauma, the sisters’ reunion is abruptly severed when a horrifying discovery is made in the building’s basement: the Necronomicon. As is customary in the franchise, the Book of the Dead has the power to resurrect malevolent spirits and instigate gruesome transformations.
As the sinister forces are unleashed, the film builds a frenetic atmosphere filled with tension and terror. The once-sacred space of sisterhood and motherhood disintegrates into chaos as Ellie becomes possessed, revealing psychological and physical horrors that threaten the lives of her children and Beth. The film reaches its crescendo through a series of visceral and gory sequences, showcasing Cronin’s ability to blend practical effects with effective storytelling.
The film’s climax confronts themes of maternal protection and the lengths to which one will go to save their loved ones, ultimately subverting typical horror tropes and presenting a new kind of survival horror narrative. "Evil Dead Rise" concludes on a tense note, leaving the audience contemplating the price of familial bonds amidst overwhelming malevolence.
List of Actors and Their Characters:
- Lily Sullivan as Beth
- Alyssa Sutherland as Ellie
- Gabrielle Echols as Kassie, Ellie’s daughter
- Morgan Davies as Danny, Ellie’s son
- Nell Fisher as Bridget, Ellie’s youngest child
- Mark Mitchinson as a supporting character
- Mia Challis as a supporting character
- Billy Reynolds-McCarthy as a background character
Review:
"Evil Dead Rise" is a thrilling addition that not only honours its bloody legacy but also carves out a new identity within the franchise. Lee Cronin has successfully packaged horror and family drama into a compelling narrative that feels both refreshing and familiar.
One of the film’s most commendable aspects is its character development. Unlike many horror films that often reduce characters to mere fodder for supernatural forces, "Evil Dead Rise" invests in its characters’ backstories and relationships. The evolution of Beth and Ellie as sisters is depicted authentically, allowing viewers to genuinely feel their bond—and subsequently, the horror that ensues when that bond is threatened.
Lily Sullivan shines as Beth, embodying the role of a reluctant hero perfectly. Her performance is layered; she brings both vulnerability and fierce determination, particularly as she grapples with the weight of her past choices and the dire circumstances surrounding her family. Alyssa Sutherland as Ellie delivers a haunting portrayal that oscillates between loving mother and terrifying force of evil, making her one of the standout characters in the film. The scenes showcasing her possession are particularly chilling, utilising a mixture of physicality and voice distortion that taps into primal fears of losing oneself.
The child actors, Gabrielle Echols, Morgan Davies, and Nell Fisher, all contribute significantly to the film’s emotional undercurrents. Their performances draw viewers into the familial struggle at the heart of the film, and their vulnerability heightens the stakes during the relentless onslaught of horror.
Cronin’s direction is a notable highlight. He masterfully constructs tension using a combination of jump-scares and psychological horror. The terrifying sequences are punctuated with visceral body horror, reminiscent of the classic "Evil Dead" films, yet modernised with slick cinematography and impressive practical effects. The gore in "Evil Dead Rise" is unapologetic; it revels in its excess while ensuring that every scene serves the narrative rather than detracting from it.
The film’s production design warrants significant praise as well. The urban setting contrasts sharply with the traditional cabins of previous films, yet its claustrophobic layout becomes an essential aspect of the horror. The dilapidated apartment building serves as a labyrinth of terror, with tight hallways and dark corners amplifying the sense of dread. The sound design further enhances this atmosphere; creaks, whispers, and the ghastly sounds of the possessed characters keep viewers on edge throughout the film’s runtime.
However, while "Evil Dead Rise" successfully encapsulates the essence of its predecessors, it does stumble occasionally. Certain plot elements feel somewhat predictable, particularly to fans familiar with the series’ conventions. A reliance on familiar tropes, such as jump scares or the classic "don’t read that book!" scenario, might leave some seasoned horror enthusiasts wanting more in terms of originality. Conversely, newcomers to the franchise may find these elements both entertaining and captivating.
The film also grapples with pacing issues in its second act. As the possession accelerates and the horror escalates, there are moments where it feels as though the film lingers a bit too long in certain scenes before propelling forward. This irregular pacing can sometimes disrupt the immersion and may test the patience of viewers anticipating constant horror.
Despite these minor imperfections, "Evil Dead Rise" achieves a harmonious balance between emotional weight and horror. The film revitalises the franchise while honouring its roots, making it a compelling experience for both dedicated fans and newcomers. The exploration of themes such as family, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of trauma adds a rich layer to the narrative, elevating it beyond mere exploitative horror.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Evil Dead Rise" is an exhilarating addition to the storied franchise, seamlessly blending family drama with the brutal horror that fans have come to love. With standout performances, particularly from Sullivan and Sutherland, alongside expert direction from Cronin, the film offers a terrifying experience that resonates emotionally. While it is not without its flaws, the film effectively captures the essence of what makes the "Evil Dead" series so enduring, paving the way for future iterations.
Score: 8/10.
