In the evolving landscape of horror and thriller cinema, “Elevation” attempts to carve its niche amid the cultural echoes of “A Quiet Place” and “Bird Box.” Both of these films set the stage for an audience captivated by looming threats and the desperation of survival. However, while “Elevation” starts with a compelling premise—where monstrous entities wreak havoc on humanity—the execution leaves much to be desired. The film presents a world decimated by fear-inducing creatures that force its remaining inhabitants into dangerous decision-making, but unfortunately, it seems to stumble over its own ambitious aspirations.
At the heart of the film is Will (Anthony Mackie), a widower grappling with the dual burdens of loss and the responsibility for his ailing son, Hunter (Danny Boyd Jr.). This dynamic offers a glimmer of emotional depth amid the chaos. The film’s setting—a secluded mountain community in Colorado—adds a certain air of intimacy, contrasting starkly with the monstrous threats lurking just beyond the safety of their altitude. The narrative hinges on the community’s belief that going above 8000 feet provides a refuge from these fiends, establishing a unique survivalist premise that’s rich with potential.
Yet, as the plot unfolds, challenges arise. Will finds himself enlisting duo companions: the provocative but somewhat confusing figure of Katie (Maddie Hasson) and the somber scientist Nina (Morena Baccarin). The casting selections reflect a desire to enrich the story with differing perspectives, yet Katie’s character appears inadequately developed, creating an imbalance in the trio’s dynamic. Despite Mackie and Baccarin’s admirable performances—particularly in quieter, more poignant interactions—the film struggles to juggle its narrative threads effectively.
The greatest misstep lies within the film’s script, which saturates the plot with clunky exposition that feels more like a checklist than organic storytelling. This lack of subtlety and finesse affects the overall building of suspense. Instead of peeling back layers of fear, the screenplay opts for overt explanations that lessen the impact of its horrific elements. In an environment where silence breeds apprehension, the film turns towards frantic action without allowing moments of dread to linger as it perhaps should.
Visually, “Elevation” excels, with cinematography that ethereally captures the astonishing beauty of its mountain backdrop. This striking contrast between the stunning visuals and the horror lurking within them evokes a fascinating tension, even as it fails to cultivate fear. The film showcases well-crafted visual effects, rendering its monsters in realistic detail, but it leans too heavily into direct representations instead of utilizing the horror of the unknown. The potential menace often feels diluted, leaving the audience craving those chilling glimpses of terror instead of unrepentant displays of monsters.
When it comes to action sequences, “Elevation” delivers quite admirably. The film is sharp and well-paced, boasting exciting sequences that echo the thrill expected from such a genre. However, it often prioritizes explosive entertainment over emotional weight, leaving die-hard horror and thriller enthusiasts wanting more substance alongside their visual fireworks.
Despite the film’s shortcomings, the promise of its premise shines through. Mackie’s and Baccarin’s chemistry and charm provide a glimpse into a more profound connection that transcends the chaos surrounding them. Their performances evoke a glimmer of hope in a story that, while formulaic, still invites a degree of empathy from the viewer.
Ultimately, “Elevation” serves as an illustrative reminder of what could have been—a story about an unbreakable bond amid a monstrous world that falters under the weight of its own execution. As audiences engage with the tale of survival against fearsome foes, the film leaves enough intrigue to perhaps encourage hopes for a sequel that could better harness its thematic essence.