Raimi’s ‘send help’ delivers a visceral shock – and critics are eating it up

Sam Raimi’s latest descent into madness – and masterful filmmaking – has landed, and it’s a chaotic, unsettling experience that’s already generating significant buzz. Forget the superhero spectacle; this is raw, unapologetic horror.

A descent into survival

‘Send Help’ throws Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien into a terrifying predicament: a plane crash, a deserted island, and a relentlessly unpleasant boss, played with gleeful brutality by Dennis Haysbert. It’s a setup ripe for disaster, and Raimi leans into the absurdity with a gusto that’s utterly captivating. This isn’t your typical creature feature; it’s a slow-burn psychological thriller masquerading as a horror film, and the tension ratchets up with each increasingly bizarre encounter.

The film’s strength lies in its unexpected shift – a genuine dramatic core emerges beneath the surface of the gore and unsettling imagery. Raimi, who honed his skills during the 80s and 90s – a golden age for his particular brand of cinema – clearly draws on that era’s sensibilities. Expect a maximalist, intensely theatrical approach that’s both exhilarating and deeply unsettling.

Critical acclaim and audience enthusiasm

Early reactions are overwhelmingly positive. Rotten Tomatoes boasts a robust 93% approval rating, a testament to the film’s genuine impact. Despite a slightly lower score from audiences – 87% – driven by over 2,500 reviews, it’s still a remarkably strong endorsement. This suggests ‘Send Help’ has struck a chord, offering a genuinely rewarding cinematic experience.

The cast is uniformly excellent. McAdams delivers a nuanced performance as a woman pushed to her absolute limit, while O’Brien provides a compelling counterpoint. Supporting players like Edyll Ismail, Xavier Samuel, and Chris Pang add significant layers to the already complex narrative. It’s a testament to Raimi’s ability to attract top-tier talent that ‘Send Help’ is already being hailed as one of the year’s best films.

But the real revelation is the film's accessibility. It’s now streaming exclusively on VoD platforms – Apple TV and Prime Video – for $12.99 to rent or $16.99 to buy. While a wider theatrical release would have undoubtedly amplified its reach, the current strategy allows viewers to experience Raimi’s unique vision from the comfort of their homes. Currently, there’s no confirmed plan for a subscription streaming debut, so VoD remains the sole entry point.

Don’t expect a neatly packaged horror story. ‘Send Help’ is a messy, uncomfortable, and utterly unforgettable ride – a return to form for Sam Raimi that deserves your attention.