Review: Rachel McAdams Shines in Dark Comedy ‘Send Help’

“Send Help” is a unique blend of dark comedy and survival horror, showcasing the distinctive style of director Sam Raimi. The film features a cheeky score by Danny Elfman, enhancing its humor and thrilling moments.

Plot Overview

The story revolves around Linda Liddle, played by Rachel McAdams. Linda is an awkward but brilliant consultant at a corporate firm, undervalued by her colleagues. Her boss, Bradley, portrayed by Dylan O’Brien, awards her long-awaited promotion to a less-deserving associate, deepening Linda’s struggle.

Unexpected Survival

Things take a drastic turn when Bradley invites Linda on a business trip to Bangkok. During the flight, their private jet crashes, leaving only the two of them as survivors. The crash scene is humorously executed, mixing horror and dark comedy.

Linda’s Transformation

In the aftermath of the crash, Linda embraces her survival skills. She proves her worth by gathering resources and building shelter, even while struggling with the dire situation. Despite her attempts to care for Bradley, he remains focused on escaping and returning to his glamorous life.

As the film progresses, Linda’s character evolves. She shifts from a mocked colleague to a decisive leader. This transformation is highlighted by her newfound confidence, marked by grim humor and unexpected violence.

Themes and Comparisons

• The film explores themes of empowerment and revenge.
• Linda’s journey is reminiscent of characters in Raimi’s earlier works, showcasing the necessity for women to assert themselves in challenging environments.

Technical Aspects

“Send Help” was filmed in Australia and Thailand, combining digital and practical effects to create its signature style. The cinematography, led by Bill Pope, captures both the comedic and grotesque elements of the narrative effectively.

Reception

The film’s rating is R due to its graphic content and audacious themes. With a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes, “Send Help” is currently playing in theaters. While it may not reach the heights of Raimi’s finest works, it stands out as an exciting addition to his filmography, blending humor with pulp horror.