“Evil Dead Rise” is the newest entry in the horror franchise, directed by Lee Cronin and starring Alyssa Sutherland. The film follows two estranged sisters, played by Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland, who must team up to battle a horde of demons that have been unleashed upon the world.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the film’s plot and characters, with a particular focus on Alyssa Sutherland’s performance as the demon-possessed mother.
Plot Summary
“Evil Dead Rise” takes place in the same universe as the original “Evil Dead” films but features a new cast of characters. The story follows sisters Beth and Rachel, who are reunited at their mother’s funeral. After a night of drinking and mourning, they unwittingly summon a horde of demons that possess their bodies and begin to wreak havoc on the small town they’re in.
The sisters must fight their way through the possessed townspeople and the demons themselves to find a way to exorcise the evil spirits and save their souls.
Alyssa Sutherland’s Performance
Alyssa Sutherland plays the sisters’ mother, who is revealed to have been possessed by a demon before her death. Sutherland’s performance as the demon-possessed mother is a standout in the film, as she channels both the maternal instincts of the character and the malevolent energy of the demon within.
Her performance is particularly impressive given that she spends most of her screen time as a demonic presence, with only occasional moments of humanity peeking through. Sutherland manages to convey a sense of dread and unease, as the demon’s presence seems to be infecting everything around her.
Overall, Sutherland’s performance is a highlight of the film and adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character.
Critical Reception
“Evil Dead Rise” has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its performances and gore effects, while others criticize its lack of originality and over-reliance on jump scares.
However, most reviews have singled out Alyssa Sutherland’s performance as a highlight of the film. The Hollywood Reporter called her “terrifyingly good” in the role, while Variety praised her ability to “convey both the pathos of a mother’s love and the menace of a demonic force.”
Cast & Characters
The cast of “Evil Dead Rise” features a talented group of actors who portray a range of characters, including both new faces and returning characters from the Evil Dead franchise.
- Alyssa Sutherland as Beth
- Lily Sullivan as Ellie
- Stephen Peacocke as Matt
- Jacob Elordi as Ryan
- Gabrielle Scawthorn as Ruby
- Morgan Davies as Nya
- Louisa Mignone as Helen
- Georgina Haig as Mia Allen
Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams – Campbell, who is known for playing Ash in the original Evil Dead trilogy, makes a cameo appearance in “Evil Dead Rise” as an older version of the character.
Conclusion
“Evil Dead Rise” is a solid addition to the horror franchise, with a standout performance from Alyssa Sutherland as the demon-possessed mother. While the film may not break new ground in the genre, it delivers plenty of thrills and scares for horror fans.
As the film becomes available for wider release, audiences will undoubtedly continue to be impressed by Sutherland’s chilling performance and the film’s overall scares and gore.