The Jack in the Box: Rises (2024) Review: A Creepy Continuation of a Cult Horror Classic
Introduction
The Jack in the Box: Rises (2024) is the latest installment in the eerie horror franchise that began with The Jack in the Box (2019). Directed by Lawrence Fowler, this sequel aims to build on the terrifying lore of the cursed jack-in-the-box toy, pushing the horror and suspense to new heights. The film is a must-watch for fans of supernatural horror and those who enjoy a good scare. In this review, we’ll delve into the plot, performances, direction, and the film’s place within the horror genre, while also providing information on where you can stream or purchase the movie in the United States.
Plot Overview
The Jack in the Box: Rises picks up after the events of the first film, with the cursed jack-in-the-box toy resurfacing in a new location, bringing terror to those who encounter it. This time, the toy ends up in the possession of a small, struggling museum, where it is mistaken for a harmless antique. However, as the museum staff and visitors start to experience strange and horrifying events, it becomes clear that the demonic entity within the box has been awakened once again.
The film follows the story of Amy (Nicola Wright), the museum’s curator, who becomes the main target of the box’s malevolent spirit. As the box’s curse begins to wreak havoc, Amy must unravel the mystery behind the toy and find a way to stop the entity before it claims more victims. The narrative is filled with tension, building up to a climactic confrontation between Amy and the demonic presence.
Performances
Nicola Wright delivers a strong performance as Amy, the determined and resourceful protagonist. Wright effectively conveys the growing fear and desperation of her character as she confronts the horrors unleashed by the cursed jack-in-the-box. Her portrayal is grounded, making Amy a relatable and sympathetic character amidst the supernatural chaos.
The supporting cast, including Matt McClure as Amy’s skeptical colleague and James Swanton as the unsettling figure tied to the box’s dark history, add depth to the film. Swanton, in particular, brings an eerie physicality to his role, enhancing the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Lawrence Fowler returns to helm this sequel, bringing a consistent vision that aligns with the tone and style of the original film. Fowler’s direction emphasizes atmosphere and suspense, using the confined and shadowy spaces of the museum to create a sense of claustrophobia and dread. His approach to horror is more psychological than outright gore, relying on well-timed scares and a creeping sense of unease to keep the audience on edge.
The cinematography by Jonathan McLaughlin plays a crucial role in building the film’s tension. The use of low lighting, tight framing, and slow camera movements heightens the sense of impending doom. The film’s visual style is both dark and visually striking, with the cursed jack-in-the-box itself serving as a central, menacing visual element that looms over the characters.
Themes and Tone
The Jack in the Box: Rises continues the franchise’s exploration of cursed objects and the inescapable nature of their evil. The film delves into themes of fear, curiosity, and the consequences of tampering with forces beyond human understanding. The tone is consistently dark, with moments of intense horror punctuated by quieter, more suspenseful scenes that allow the tension to build gradually.
The film also touches on the idea of obsession, as Amy becomes increasingly fixated on uncovering the truth behind the box’s curse. This obsession leads her down a dangerous path, highlighting the psychological toll of encountering something so deeply malevolent. The film’s tone is one of inevitable doom, with the cursed object’s power portrayed as nearly unstoppable.
Where to Watch
As of its release in 2024, The Jack in the Box: Rises is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Shudder, and Apple TV. Horror fans can also rent or purchase the film on Vudu, Google Play Movies, and YouTube Movies, with options available in HD and 4K. These platforms ensure that the film is accessible to a wide audience, allowing viewers to experience the terror from the comfort of their own homes.
Conclusion
The Jack in the Box: Rises is a chilling sequel that successfully builds on the creepy premise of the original film. With strong performances, particularly from Nicola Wright, and effective direction from Lawrence Fowler, the film offers a satisfying blend of suspense and supernatural horror. Whether you’re a fan of the original The Jack in the Box or simply looking for a new horror movie to get your heart racing, The Jack in the Box: Rises delivers the scares. Be sure to check it out on your preferred streaming service or add it to your horror collection—this is one cursed object you won’t soon forget.
