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Evil Dead Rise it is the most recent installment of the iconic horror franchise Evil Dead, started by Sam Raimi in 1981 with the film The Evil Dead. Over the decades, the saga has become a cult phenomenon, with a unique blend of bloody horror, dark humor and demonic possessions. This new film, released in 2023, represents a refreshing twist on the traditional formula, moving away from the classic cabin in the woods and moving the action to a more claustrophobic urban setting: an apartment building in Los Angeles.
Directed and written by Lee Cronin, Evil Dead Rise it retains the brutal and visceral DNA of the series, but with a completely new story, new characters and a setting that intensifies the feeling of confinement and despair. The film not only pays tribute to its predecessors, but also marks its own path, seeking to attract new generations of horror fans.
Synopsis
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The story follows two separated sisters, Beth and Ellie. Beth is a guitar technician who lives traveling with bands, while Ellie is a single mother trying to raise her three children in an old apartment building in Los Angeles. The meeting between the two occurs when Beth visits Ellie after receiving shocking news about her future.
Everything changes when an earthquake shakes the city and Ellie's eldest son, Danny, discovers a hidden room in the building. There he finds an ancient book of the dead (the Necronomicon) along with some vinyl records with recordings of ancient rituals. By unknowingly reproducing them, he unleashes an ancient demonic force.
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The evil entity possesses Ellie, making her a terrifying threat to his own family. Trapped in the building, with no escape, Beth is forced to fight to survive and protect the children, while facing unspeakable horrors, blood, mutilations and demonic nightmares that will test her healing and strength.
Main Cast
- Alyssa Sutherland as Ellie: The Possessed Mother, whose role is central to the film's horror. Her performance as the mother transformed into Deadite is disturbing and powerful.
- Lily Sullivan like Beth: The protagonist, who takes on the role of unexpected heroine. It represents the emotional heart of the story.
- Gabrielle Echols like Bridget: Ellie's eldest daughter.
- Morgan Davies like Danny: The son who triggers the curse.
- Nell Fisher like Kassie: The youngest daughter, whose innocence contrasts with the violence that surrounds her.
- Mirabai Pease, Richard Crouchley and Anna-Maree Thomas in supporting roles related to the film's opening sequence.
The cast is primarily made up of new faces, helping the audience fully immerse themselves in the story without distractions. The performances, especially those of Sutherland and Sullivan, are intense and believable, conveying terror, despair and chaos effectively.
Criticisms
Evil Dead Rise it received mostly positive reviews from specialized critics. Many highlighted the fresh approach of Lee Cronin, who managed to capture the essence of the franchise without falling into repetition. His direction was praised for its dynamic pace, its ability to generate sustained tension, and its handling of physical horror.
Alyssa Sutherland's performance was widely celebrated. Her transformation into demonic mother Ellie was described as chilling and memorable, with facial expressions and body movements chilling with blood. Likewise, Lily Sullivan earned applause for her performance as Beth, who convincingly evolves from distant sister to protective figure.
Some critics, however, noted that the film lacks the dark humor characteristic of previous installments, especially those starring Bruce Campbell. This shift toward a more serious and visceral tone was seen by some as a necessary evolution, and by others as a loss of the unique style that defined the original saga.
Public Reception
The general public received the film enthusiastically. On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, Evil Dead Rise it achieved a positive score from both critics and audiences. Horror fans especially valued the oppressive atmosphere, well-executed gore and practical effects, reminiscent of the craftsmanship of classic horror films.
Followers of the saga were divided into two groups: those who appreciated the innovation and modernization of the concept, and those who missed the camp and comic style of Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell. Even so, the majority agreed that Evil Dead Rise it is a worthy continuation of the franchise.
At the box office, the film had a notable performance, exceeding $140 million worldwide, with a budget of just $20 million. Its success revitalized interest in the franchise, and there is already talk of possible new installments under the same narrative line.
Technical and Visual Aspects
One of the most notable elements of Evil Dead Rise it is its technical section. Dave Garbett's cinematography creates a somber and oppressive atmosphere that intensifies each horror scene. Using closed frames and unusual perspectives helps create discomfort and tension.
Editing, by Bryan Shaw, maintains an agile pace without sacrificing suspense development. Each bloody scene is carefully choreographed to impact, but without losing visual clarity. Unlike many modern horror films, Evil Dead Rise avoid the abuse of digital effects, opting for practical effects, makeup and prostheses to generate your most grotesque moments.
The sound design also deserves special mention. From the guttural sounds of the Deadites to the crackling of bones and rusty doors, audio plays a key role in immersing the viewer in horror. The music, composed by Stephen McKeon, is disturbing and accurately accompanies emotional peaks and moments of panic.
Makeup and special effects strike a balance between the grotesque and the artistic. Ellie's physical transformation, for example, is both terrifying and fascinating, with details that evoke both the demonic and the human.
Conclusion
Evil Dead Rise it's a solid and revitalizing addition to the franchise Evil Dead. With a new setting, unknown but charismatic characters, and a more serious and somber approach, the film manages to generate an intense terrifying experience that pays tribute to its roots without depending on them.
Lee Cronin's direction shows respect for Sam Raimi's legacy, while daring to explore new paths. The result is a film that manages to scare, impact and keep the viewer on the edge of their seat throughout its duration.
While some purists may miss the dark humor and iconic figure of Ash Williams, Evil Dead Rise it shows that the essence of the horror of Evil Dead it can adapt and evolve without losing its impact. Its commercial success and critical reception suggest that there is still much to explore in this macabre universe.
In short, for lovers of visceral horror, intelligent gore and stories of desperate survival, Evil Dead Rise it is an unmissable experience.
