By: Jesse Striewski

For a quarter of a century now the Final Destination franchise has given modern horror films the same type of mindless (yet often clever), gory fun that fans have come to expect from the likes of Freddy or Jason, but without an actual face to go along with it like the aforementioned other hard-hitters (the film does give off some major Halloween 2018 vibes at the onset though).

This latest installment (first since 2011 and sixth overall) sticks close to the usual formula, but adds a slight twist to the proceedings. This time around, college student Stefani Reyes (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) feels the need to get in touch with her estranged grandmother (Gabrielle Rose) after experiencing a recurring nightmare involving her at a younger age (played by Brec Bassinger).

Come to find out, Granny actually saved a lot of lives back in the day, but it came with a hefty price. Death not only come back to claim all of those who did not perish that night so long ago in the ’60s, but their entire lineage as well.

One by one, Stefani’s family get claimed by the Grim Reaper as they scramble to avoid their respective gruesome fates. Most of the deaths are over the top in their own cartoon-y ways, actually making it somewhat more tolerable than more realistic horror films these days (which I’ve admittedly lost much interest in).

But despite all of its chaos, there is a bittersweet side to it here, now being the final film role/appearance of the late Tony Todd (the film is dedicated to his memory at the end credits).

It’s not a perfect movie by any means, but if you’re looking for escapist entertainment without having to put much thought into the plot, this will do.

Rating: 2.5/5 Stars