Evil Dead Rise (2023)

A twisted tale of family, survival, and the horrors that rise when ancient evil is unleashed.

Directed by: Lee Cronin
Starring: Lily Sullivan, Alyssa Sutherland, Morgan Davies, Gabrielle Echols, Nell Fisher

The Evil Dead franchise has been synonymous with horror for decades, and Evil Dead Rise breathes new life into the series with a modern take. Moving the action out of the isolated woods and into an urban apartment complex, this film amps up the terror and gore while exploring the most nightmarish version of family imaginable.

Plot Overview

The movie begins with a horrifying cold open at a lakeside cabin, where cousins Teresa and Jessica, along with Jessica’s boyfriend Caleb, encounter the dark force of possession. This chilling prologue sets the tone for what’s to come.

The story then shifts to Los Angeles, where single mother Ellie lives with her three children, Danny, Bridget, and Kassie, in a run-down apartment complex. Ellie’s estranged sister Beth, a guitar technician, arrives unexpectedly, seeking solace after learning about her pregnancy. Their reunion is cut short when an earthquake uncovers a hidden vault in the building’s basement.

Inside the vault, Danny discovers a mysterious book (the Naturom Demonto) and a set of phonograph records. Despite the ominous warnings on the recordings, Danny plays them, unknowingly summoning demonic entities called Deadites. The horror begins as Ellie is possessed by the evil force, turning her into a grotesque, malevolent version of herself.

As Ellie terrorizes her family and neighbors, Beth must step into the role of protector, fighting to save her nieces and nephew from the malevolent forces. What follows is a blood-soaked battle for survival filled with shocking kills, spine-chilling scares, and unforgettable moments of terror.

Why Evil Dead Rise Stands Out

Unlike its predecessors set in isolated cabins, Evil Dead Rise brings the franchise into a claustrophobic urban environment, amplifying the horror with the inescapable confines of a crumbling apartment building.

The film also explores deeper emotional themes, particularly the strained relationship between Beth and Ellie. The horrors of possession are intertwined with the complexities of family dynamics, adding an emotional layer to the gore-filled chaos.

Key Highlights

• The Gore: True to its roots, Evil Dead Rise delivers plenty of gruesome, creative kills. From scalpings to chainsaws, the film spares no expense in showcasing over-the-top carnage.
• The Setting: The Los Angeles apartment complex adds a fresh, modern backdrop to the franchise’s legacy.
• The Performances: Alyssa Sutherland delivers a standout performance as the possessed Ellie, masterfully balancing terrifying and tragic elements of her character.
• The Cinematography: The film’s visual style brings an eerie and unsettling tone, although some moments are deliberately shrouded in darkness to heighten suspense.

(Optional: Embed the trailer again here to give readers another visual break.)

Full Plot Summary

(You can include the detailed plot summary here for readers who want to know every twist and turn. Be sure to include key scenes like the discovery of the book, Ellie’s possession, and the climactic battle in the blood-filled elevator.)

Conclusion: A Must-Watch for Horror Fans

With Evil Dead Rise, the franchise continues to evolve while staying true to its gory, nightmarish roots. Fans of the original films will appreciate the callbacks, while newcomers will be drawn in by the intense scares and gripping story.

A Modern Take on a Classic Formula

Moving the action to the city adds a refreshing twist to the franchise while maintaining its trademark elements of gruesome horror and dark humor. Ellie, a struggling single mother of three, lives in a dilapidated apartment complex with her children. When a hidden vault is unearthed during an earthquake, Ellie’s son Danny discovers a strange book and phonograph records. Unknowingly, he unleashes the malevolent Deadites through an ancient incantation.

What unfolds is a relentless descent into terror. Ellie becomes the primary host of the demonic entity, her transformation into a grotesque and menacing figure testing the limits of maternal love. As Beth struggles to protect her niece Kassie and nephew Danny, the film weaves themes of family, guilt, and survival into its gruesome narrative.

Blood, Gore, and Unforgettable Horror

Fans of the franchise will not be disappointed by the film’s commitment to over-the-top gore and creative kills. From scalpings to mutilations, Evil Dead Rise delivers plenty of cringe-worthy moments. One of the most teased scenes involving a cheese grater lives up to its reputation, though viewers may find themselves wanting even more from some of the film’s gruesome sequences.

The film’s climax is a visual and emotional spectacle, featuring a horrifying amalgamation of Deadites known as “The Marauder.” The creature’s grotesque design, paired with the blood-soaked descent of an elevator filled with crimson, solidifies Evil Dead Rise as a worthy addition to the franchise’s legacy.

Themes of Motherhood and Sisterhood

Beyond the gore, Evil Dead Rise introduces a more personal and emotional layer to the story. The strained relationship between Beth and Ellie is subtly explored, with themes of motherhood and sibling bonds adding depth to the relentless horror. Beth, a guitar technician grappling with an unplanned pregnancy, is thrust into the role of protector—a stark contrast to her self-doubting, uncertain character at the film’s beginning.

Ellie’s transformation into a Deadite showcases a chilling juxtaposition of motherly love and demonic cruelty. Her taunts and actions blur the line between possession and her own buried frustrations, creating moments of discomfort and emotional weight.

A Mixed Bag of Praise and Critique

While Evil Dead Rise is undeniably entertaining and packed with gory goodness, some critics have noted that it doesn’t entirely push the boundaries of the franchise. The kills, though brutal, may feel familiar to longtime fans. Additionally, the muted cinematography and darker tone lack the vibrancy and inventive flair of Sam Raimi’s original trilogy.

However, for those seeking a terrifying, edge-of-your-seat experience, Evil Dead Rise delivers. Its fresh setting, combined with strong performances—especially from Alyssa Sutherland as the unhinged and terrifying Ellie—make it a standout entry.

Conclusion

Evil Dead Rise reimagines the franchise for a modern audience while staying true to its roots of relentless horror and gore. It’s a chilling reminder of why the Evil Dead series remains a staple in the horror genre. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the series, this film promises a blood-drenched ride you won’t soon forget.

Are you ready to face the Deadites? Grab your chainsaw and steel your nerves—Evil Dead Rise is a family reunion like no other.