Send Help Reviews: Sam Raimi’s Horror Comedy Is ‘Disgusting’ And ‘Brilliant’

by

Sam Raimi, the celebrated director known for his comedic horror films, is already a critical success and doesn’t require any additional praise.

It’s challenging to make a good survival movie, but when done well, the genre can really shine. Sam Raimi’s Send Help has been praised by critics for its distinctive blend of horror and comedy – a style he’s become known for. Reviewers have noted that Raimi’s signature touches make the film particularly effective: injuries feel intensely painful, and the film skillfully draws the audience into the characters’ escalating desperation. The result is a gripping and realistic portrayal of what it truly takes to survive and how people might react under extreme pressure.

Though not a typical thriller, the film truly shines as a gripping survival story, demonstrating Sam Raimi’s skill as a director and leaving viewers eager to see what he does next. According to Brooks, it’s a funny, disturbing, and surprisingly clever film that’s a great way to discover or revisit Raimi’s work. Ultimately, the movie offers more than just thrills – it’s a thought-provoking look at enduring an unthinkable ordeal.

Even if you’re not a big Sam Raimi fan, you’ll likely enjoy Send Help, though knowing his work definitely adds to the experience, according to Todd Gilchrist of Screen Rant. This is Raimi’s 16th film, and it feels as creatively energetic as his classic movies. While the film is genuinely heartfelt – Raimi seems even better at finding emotional moments in chaotic situations – his main focus is still on delivering exciting, funny, and over-the-top action. The camera work perfectly matches the actors’ enthusiastic performances. Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien both deliver incredibly uninhibited performances, showcasing a side of their talents we haven’t seen before, and Raimi gives them plenty of room to do so.

Sam Raimi’s Send Help Has Earned Raving Reviews

Clarisse Loughrey, writing for The Independent, called Send Help both “brilliant” and “disgusting” in her review. Mark Keizer of MovieWeb focused on the film’s themes while praising director Sam Raimi’s return to horror filmmaking. Keizer noted that Send Help is a welcome return for Raimi, and that the film’s true horror lies in how far people will go to maintain their power and protect their egos, both at work and in life.

Courtney Howard from Fresh Fiction is enthusiastic about the work of Raimi, McAdams, and O’Brien, calling the film “bloody, radical and totally savage,” and praising its thrilling, rewatchable quality. Chris Evangelista at Slash Film describes Send Help as “delightfully unhinged” and surprisingly clever in its writing.

Send Help opens in theaters on Jan. 30.

Read More

2026-01-26 20:36