The Evil Dead series has captivated audiences for decades, but the latest installment, Evil Dead Rise, takes supernatural horror to another level. Directed by Lee Cronin, this 2023 release has garnered positive reviews and achieved impressive box office success. From shocking plot twists to a stellar cast, let’s dive into everything you need to know about Evil Dead Rise, including the cast, plot, and where to watch it.
Introduction to Evil Dead Rise
Evil Dead Rise is a standalone feature in the Evil Dead series, released in 2023. Directed by Lee Cronin and produced by Rob Tapert, the horror flick just swept the supernatural genre off its feet with its riveting storyline and chilling visuals, making it the highest grosser for the Evil Dead franchise.
The Story Behind Evil Dead Rise
The production of Evil Dead Rise brought some twists to the table. In its initial stages, it seemed people were looking forward to a straight-up sequel, possibly to the 2013 Evil Dead or perhaps Army of Darkness. Still, by 2019, the movie changed tack under Cronin’s imaginative vision, which Sam Raimi had picked exactly for this purpose.
Key Characters and Cast
The cast of Evil Dead Rise brings the terrifying tale to life with powerful performances:
- Lily Sullivanas Beth – The estranged sister with a troubled past.
- Alyssa Sutherlandas Ellie – A single mother who becomes possessed.
- Morgan Davies,Gabrielle Echols, and Nell Fisher round out the cast with equally compelling roles, adding depth to the story.
Production Journey
Filming occurred in New Zealand in 2021 in order to create unsettling settings for the dark, claustrophobic atmosphere of the story. Initially destined to be on HBO Max, potential led Warner Bros to greenlight a cinematic release following successful test screenings.
Plot Summary
Evil Dead Rise is a plot with Beth and Ellie; she is her estranged sister whom she never wanted to see again. Ellie so happens to get possessed at an ancient evil known as Deadites during a tight family reunion. Beth was fighting personal issues of hers that she had to ward off for her family during this horror.
Cinematic Style and Visuals
This one is shot beautifully by cinematography Dave Garbett. In turn, as a treat to the fans of horror movies, he has set this movie off with creepy angles, some very interestingly framed scenes, and all through the gloomy light to keep everyone on tenterhooks with his haunting composition and sounds arranged by Stephen McKeon.
Critical Reception
Evil Dead Rise received critical acclaim, particularly for its innovative style and chemistry between leads Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland. The film was nominated at the 51st Saturn Awards, including Best Horror Film and Best Make-up.
Box Office Success
Evil Dead Rise is the highest grossing film in the series at $147 million, breaking all expectations on a low budget of just $15–19 million, as a surprise box office hit. It became the best-grossing Evil Dead film and a modern horror classic.
Evil Dead Rise: Where to Watch
The Evil Dead Rise was then available digitally and on HBO Max right after the theatrical distribution. For those who have an affinity for owning hard copies, it is readily available on DVD, Blu-ray, and Ultra HD Blu-ray.
Comparisons with Previous Films
Unlike the previous Evil Dead, which was basically gore and slapstick, Evil Dead Rise is strong and relentless. While its background is urban and plot-wise, it really is family-centered, therefore giving it some freshness and darkness compared to its competitors.
What Makes Evil Dead Rise Unique?
Evil Dead Rise is quite different from the others since it is more focused on family and survival rather than a group of friends locked away in a remote area. This fresh approach with Cronin’s modern take on horror brings something new yet still pays homage to the franchise.
