Sam Raimi’s ‘Send Help’: A Gripping Gore-Filled Survival Thriller Review
Sam Raimi returns to the silver screen with “Send Help,” a unique black comedy that promises a mix of survival thrills, humor, and unexpected horror elements. The film, written by Damian Shannon and Mark Swift, is set against the backdrop of a deserted island. Here, two plane crash survivors navigate their new reality, leading to a clash of personalities.
Plot Overview
“Send Help” centers on Linda Liddle, portrayed by Rachel McAdams. Linda, a dedicated researcher, feels underappreciated at her corporate job due to the misogyny of her male colleagues. Dylan O’Brien plays Bradley Preston, the new CEO who promised Linda a promotion but instead ridicules her ambitions, particularly her desire to appear on a popular survival reality show.
Key Events and Characters
- Setting: A deserted island following a plane crash.
- Protagonist: Linda Liddle (Rachel McAdams) – a skilled researcher and survival enthusiast.
- Antagonist: Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien) – the arrogant new CEO who undermines Linda’s career.
- Initial Conflict: The dynamics shift after a business trip leads to a catastrophic crash, leaving Linda and Bradley as the sole survivors.
Character Development
As the story unfolds, the power dynamics between Linda and Bradley shift dramatically. Initially the subservient employee, Linda’s skills become essential for survival. Meanwhile, Bradley’s ignorance becomes a hindrance, creating a fertile ground for a humorous yet intense struggle for dominance.
Thematic Elements
“Send Help” juxtaposes elements of comedy and horror. While the film starts with a promising premise, critics argue that Raimi leans too heavily on gore and horror tropes that detract from the overall narrative. The film has been noted for its satirical take on gender dynamics in the workplace, along with the absurdity of survival situations.
Release Dates
- Australia: January 29
- United States: January 30
- United Kingdom: February 5
Conclusion
While “Send Help” features engaging performances, particularly from McAdams, its reliance on inconsistent horror elements may leave some viewers wanting. The film poses as an energetic survival thriller but struggles under the weight of its own narrative choices. Fans of Raimi and black comedies may still find value in this unconventional tale.
