EVIL DEAD RISE' (2023) Review - Not Your Mother's Necronomicon - PopHorror

Evil Dead Rise is the latest installment in the Evil Dead franchise, and directed by Lee Cronin. As a huge fan of the original Evil Dead films, I was very excited to see how this new addition would live up to the legacy of the series. Overall, I found Evil Dead Rise to be a thrilling and gory horror film that successfully captures the essence of the Evil Dead universe, but truth be told, I kept waiting for Ash (Bruce Campbell) to come waltzing in the door waving his boomstick ready to save the day.

One of the standout aspects of Evil Dead Rise is its unique setting. Unlike the previous films, which took place in secluded cabins in the woods, this installment is set in a high-rise apartment building. This change in location adds a fresh and claustrophobic feel to the film, as the characters are trapped in a confined space with the demonic forces that haunt them. The verticality of the building also allows for some creative and intense action sequences, as characters must navigate through multiple floors while being pursued by evil entities.

The film introduces us to two sisters, played by Alyssa Sutherland and Lily Sullivan, who are forced to confront the evil forces that have been unleashed in their apartment building. Unfortunately for them, and for the three young children of the family, things quickly go to hell in a hand basket after a series of events puts them face-to-face with flesh-eating demons. Both actresses deliver strong performances, effectively portraying the fear and desperation of their characters as they fight for survival. The chemistry between the sisters is believable and adds an emotional depth to the story.

Evil Dead Rise does not shy away from the gore and violence that the franchise is known for. The special effects used to depict the gruesome and bloody scenes are impressive and add to the overall intensity of the film. The makeup and prosthetics work is particularly well done, creating terrifying and grotesque creatures that will surely satisfy fans of the series.

The pacing of Evil Dead Rise is fast and relentless, with the horror escalating from the very beginning. The film wastes no time in establishing the threat and plunges the characters into a nightmarish situation. This constant sense of danger keeps the audience on the edge of their seats and ensures that there is never a dull moment.

While Evil Dead Rise successfully captures the spirit of the Evil Dead franchise, it does lack some of the humor and campiness that made the original films so beloved. The tone of this installment is darker and more serious, focusing primarily on the horror elements rather than the comedic aspects. While this may disappoint some fans, it does give the film a distinct and chilling atmosphere.

In my opinion Evil Dead Rise is a worthy addition to the Evil Dead franchise. It delivers on the gore and scares that fans have come to expect, while also introducing new elements that keep the story fresh and exciting. With its unique setting, strong performances, and relentless pacing, Evil Dead Rise is a must-watch for fans of the series and horror enthusiasts as well. I’m hoping this won’t be the last film of the series, but only time will tell. Stay tuned!