Evil Dead Rise (2023) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
“Evil Dead Rise,” released in 2023, is the latest installment in the iconic “Evil Dead” franchise, known for its blend of horror and dark humor. Directed by Lee Cronin, this film continues the legacy of the original 1981 classic while introducing a fresh take on the series’ signature blend of supernatural terror and visceral thrills. The film is a departure from the cabin-in-the-woods setting of previous entries, setting its horrors in an urban environment. In this review, we’ll explore the key elements of “Evil Dead Rise” and provide information on where to watch it online.
Plot Summary
“Evil Dead Rise” shifts the franchise’s setting from the isolated woods to a high-rise apartment building. The story follows Ellie (Alyssa Sutherland), a single mother living in a cramped apartment with her three children. Her life is upended when her estranged sister, Beth (Lily Sullivan), arrives for a visit. During her stay, they uncover a mysterious book—a Necronomicon—that unleashes demonic forces upon them.
As the apartment becomes a battleground between the living and the dead, the family must fight for their survival against increasingly terrifying and malevolent entities. The film combines elements of possession, bloodshed, and dark humor to deliver a chilling and relentless horror experience.
Performances
The cast of “Evil Dead Rise” delivers standout performances that anchor the film’s intense and frightening atmosphere. Alyssa Sutherland shines as Ellie, portraying a mother who is both vulnerable and terrifyingly possessed. Her performance is a critical element in the film’s ability to evoke fear and sympathy.
Lily Sullivan brings depth to her role as Beth, a character who must confront her own fears and family dynamics while battling supernatural horrors. The chemistry between Sutherland and Sullivan adds emotional weight to the film, enhancing the stakes of their struggle.
The supporting cast, including the young actors playing Ellie’s children, contribute to the film’s tension and horror. Their performances underscore the personal stakes of the narrative and add to the film’s emotional resonance.
Direction and Cinematography
Lee Cronin’s direction of “Evil Dead Rise” is both inventive and unsettling. Cronin manages to update the franchise’s traditional elements while introducing new and creative ways to evoke fear. The film’s shift from a rural to an urban setting allows for fresh scenarios and increased tension, with the claustrophobic confines of the high-rise adding to the sense of entrapment and dread.
The cinematography, handled by Dave Garbett, complements Cronin’s vision with striking and often unsettling visuals. The film’s use of lighting, color, and camera angles enhances its horror elements, creating a visually dynamic experience that keeps viewers on edge. The choice of setting within an apartment building adds a unique layer of anxiety, making the familiar environment of home feel menacing and unfamiliar.
Special Effects and Makeup
“Evil Dead Rise” continues the franchise’s tradition of practical effects and makeup, with a focus on gruesome and visceral visuals. The film employs a mix of practical effects and CGI to create its horrifying creatures and blood-soaked sequences. The attention to detail in the effects work is evident, with the film’s use of gore and supernatural elements contributing to its intense and unsettling atmosphere.
The makeup and special effects teams have crafted a range of disturbing and memorable visuals, from grotesque demon transformations to brutal violence. The film’s commitment to practical effects enhances its impact and ensures that the horror remains tangible and visceral.
Themes and Atmosphere
“Evil Dead Rise” explores themes of family, isolation, and the personal cost of confronting evil. The film’s setting in an urban apartment contrasts with the franchise’s traditional rural locations, highlighting themes of entrapment and the invasion of evil into the familiar.
The atmosphere of the film is one of relentless tension and dread. The film’s pacing and use of sound design contribute to a sense of growing unease, with jump scares and psychological horror elements keeping viewers engaged and frightened. The film balances moments of dark humor with its horror, maintaining the franchise’s signature blend of terror and irreverence.
Critical Reception
“Evil Dead Rise” received generally positive reviews from critics and fans. The film was praised for its inventive take on the franchise, its effective use of practical effects, and its ability to deliver genuine scares. Critics noted that while the film adheres to some of the franchise’s traditional elements, it also introduces new and fresh perspectives that keep the series relevant and engaging.
Some reviewers mentioned that the film’s shift to an urban setting added a new layer of tension and creativity, though opinions varied on whether it fully captured the essence of the original films. Overall, “Evil Dead Rise” was well-received for its ability to revive and innovate within the established horror universe.
Where to Watch Evil Dead Rise (2023) Online
If you’re interested in watching “Evil Dead Rise,” here are some streaming services and platforms where it is available, particularly in the United States:
- HBO Max
- Availability: “Evil Dead Rise” is available for streaming on HBO Max. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription, making HBO Max the primary platform for accessing this latest entry in the franchise.
- Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: The film is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $5.99 to $6.99, while purchasing the film may cost between $14.99 and $19.99.
- Apple TV
- Availability: “Evil Dead Rise” can be rented or purchased on Apple TV. Prices are similar to those on Amazon, with rentals around $5.99 and purchases between $14.99 and $19.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV. This platform offers compatibility with a variety of devices, making it a flexible option for viewing.
- YouTube Movies
- Availability: “Evil Dead Rise” can be rented or purchased on YouTube Movies, providing another option for accessing the film on various devices.
- Vudu
- Availability: Vudu offers the option to rent or buy “Evil Dead Rise.” Known for its high-quality streaming, Vudu is a good choice for watching the film on demand.
Conclusion
“Evil Dead Rise” (2023) is a thrilling and intense addition to the “Evil Dead” franchise, delivering a fresh take on the series while staying true to its roots. With its inventive setting, strong performances, and effective use of practical effects, the film offers a captivating horror experience for fans and newcomers alike.
Call to Action
Ready to experience the latest chapter in the “Evil Dead” saga? Stream or rent “Evil Dead Rise” on HBO Max or your preferred platform today. Immerse yourself in this chilling and inventive horror film and see how the franchise continues to evolve and terrify.
