Arts & Life

Reviews

By Cesar Soto Staff Writer

Although there are many fantastic blockbuster films that moviegoers can choose from, there are now some new smallerscale films out in theaters right now. In this final edition to the “Now playing” series for this semester are spoiler-free reviews for movies that will provide thrilling experiences at a theater near you.

“Evil Dead Rise”

Directed by Lee Cronin, the fifth installment in the Evil Dead franchise is as gory and brutal as ever. In a fast-paced 97 minutes, the horror elements feel right at home with the twisted nature these movies have always had — even if the story and characters leave much to be desired.

The film follows two sisters who reunite after much time apart, until body-possessing demons enter the picture, forcing them to save their family and fight to survive.

To address the main issue first, the plot and the characters fall short in how the movie ultimately plays out. For some, that might not be an issue as it is a horror film designed to scare and entertain. However, it was difficult to care as much about them being in danger and fighting for survival when the film gives us no reason to care for these characters.

Thankfully, Cronin’s excellent understanding of the horror genre and his eye for what makes the franchise as iconic as it is justifies its existence as a bloody good time. It is a mean and unrelenting movie with its brutality; it holds back no punches and is all the better for it. It was unpredictable as to what would happen to who, when and how, keeping audiences on their toes with its insanity. Most of the film is also set in a smaller location, creating a heightened sense of unease.

Many clever camera tricks and movements pay homage to Sam