Evil Dead Rise is a movie that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Evil Dead franchise. Though the story takes place in an apartment building, it has all the elements that demand a viewing with a group of friends in a remote cabin in the woods. An earthquake cuts off power and mobile connections and uncovers the infamous Necronomicon Ex-Mortis, unleashing Deadite chaos.

Beth, a young roadie, visits her pregnant sister Ellie, a single mother with three children. When Danny reads the book’s incantations, Ellie becomes possessed by a demonic entity, leaving Beth to protect her sister’s children from the evil within.

Despite some contrived plot points, director Lee Cronin does an excellent job of capturing the frenzied, over-the-top, and humor-tinged horror that defines the franchise. The pacing is spot-on, with a steady buildup of tension that culminates in a heart-pounding climax. The film is a quick 97-minute watch, with each scene building on the last to create an exhilarating experience. Cronin also infuses the movie with dark humor and wit while relying on practical effects, reminiscent of the franchise’s classic style.

Alyssa Sutherland, who portrayed Aslaug in Vikings, delivers a bone-chilling performance as the possessed Ellie, and the rest of the cast, including Lily Sullivan and the children, are all fantastic.

Evil Dead Rise is a worthy addition to the franchise, offering everything fans have come to expect, including gore, scares, and dark humor. While a few plot contrivances exist, they are easily overlooked in the midst of the thrilling ride.

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