After Nearly 2 Decades, Sam Raimi Delivers a 93%-Rated Horror-Comedy Masterclass

Sam Raimi, the creator of the cult classic The Evil Dead franchise and director of the original Spider-Man trilogy, has finally returned to horror comedy after a 17-year hiatus from feature-length horror films.

His new movie, Send Help, is a bold, hilariously gory thriller that proves his signature style is alive and well.

What Is 'Send Help' About?

Linda is a talented strategist awaiting a well-deserved promotion. However, she falls into the trap of her new boss, Bradley, who wants to get rid of her and promote his friend instead.

Bradley lures Linda onto a private jet under the pretext of an important business trip so she can coach his protégé along the way. However, their plans are ruined overnight when the plane crashes in the Pacific Ocean.

The only survivors are the bitter enemies, Linda and Bradley, who are washed ashore on a deserted island. While the arrogant Bradley is completely helpless, Linda, a fan of survival shows, takes matters into her own hands.

Sam Raimi Returns to Horror After 17 Years – and It's an Impressive Comeback

Since Drag Me to Hell in 2009, Sam Raimi has clearly been starved for blood – in Send Help, he goes all out. His signature style is in full effect: fountains of fake blood, hyperbolic violence, and macabre humor bordering on the absurd.

However, Raimi balances this madness with unexpected moments of warmth. Quiet gatherings around a campfire where characters share their vulnerabilities create a warm, intimate atmosphere that is unique to the genre.

'Send Help' Might Raise Questions Plot-Wise, but It's a Funny and Wild Roller Coaster With Rivers of Blood

Send Help's main compromise for the sake of spectacle is its narrative logic. The classic survival story premise and the characters' exaggerated motivations and actions serve only one purpose: to lead the viewer to the next shocking or comical twist.

The script falters in contrast to the lively, energetic direction. At times, the absurdity of the situations can pull you out of the movie's reality.

However, Send Help doesn't pretend to be a profound drama – it's pure entertainment, an unstoppable, fun, and extremely bloody thrill ride.

The explosive chemistry between Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien, who crawl through the mud, scream, and let off steam, makes for a thrilling viewing experience.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Send Help'?

• Send Help has 93% from critics and 87% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.3/10.

• On Letterboxd, Send Help scored 3.5/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Send Help'?

Send Help is currently playing in theaters.