While some dream of living in the mountains to enjoy serene landscapes and breathtaking vistas, imagine being trapped at only the highest peaks in the world. Brought to theaters by Vertical on November 8, 2024, Elevation is a rollercoaster ride, following Will, a single father portrayed by Anthony Mackie (8 Mile 2002, Avengers: Endgame 2019), as he embarks on a perilous journey with two courageous women, Nina and Katie. Played by Morena Baccarin (Homeland series, Deadpool & Wolverine 2024) and Maddie Hasson (Malignant 2021, The Recruit 2022), they leave the safety of their shelter to confront terrifying creatures in a desperate quest to rescue Will’s young son. Directed by George Nolfi (The Adjustment Bureau 2011, The Banker 2020), this Thriller combines a haunting landscape with a story of survival and resilience to produce an unpredictable and grueling experience for audiences.
In an era flooded with Post-Apocalyptic films that often recycle the same tired tropes, Elevation rises above to deliver a refreshing take that keeps audiences on their toes. It serves up a feast for the eyes with stunning mountain vistas that look like they were plucked from a postcard, all while maintaining an undercurrent of eerie tension. The stark contrast between the serene beauty of nature and the lurking dangers makes every rustle in the trees feel like a suspenseful whisper, reminding us that the wilderness is as much a villain as it is a refuge.
A deeper understanding of the monsters and events that lead to the current situation is crafted through the dialogue, which occasionally lacks a natural flow. The details conveyed give the audience minute details to chew on, as they learn more about the harsh reality of living above eight-thousand feet, with little hope of reclaiming the life they once knew. The exchanges between characters reveal their struggles and unresolved emotions, grounding the story in how real people would likely manage in this reality. While some lines may feel contrived, the underlying themes of desperation and survival against all odds shine through, effectively immersing viewers in this bleak yet compelling world.
Unlike other post-apocalyptic stories centering around just one hero, Elevation leaves space for each character to serve a purpose in their fight. Mackie delivers a heartfelt and honest performance as Will. His character arc is complex, not only does he have to navigate the dangers of monsters around each corner, but navigating his struggle with grief and forgiveness. Meanwhile, Nina stands as a beacon of hope in a world gone mad. But there is a bit of a puzzle – does her cold demeanor stem from heartbreak, or is it just a quirk of Baccarin’s performance? It is a bit of a head-scratcher that could use a little more warmth to connect the audience authentically to her journey.
Additionally, the strained relationship between Nina and Katie occasionally feels forced, resulting in moments that may seem awkward rather than emotionally resonant. This dynamic, while intended to add depth, can detract from the overall flow and impact of their scenes, making them a challenge to fully engage with. With more nuance and warmth, Nina’s character could transform from a puzzling enigma into a relatable figure whose struggles resonate deeply with the audience.
Mostly avoiding tired tropes, Elevation presents a story that feels raw and authentic, where the audience is not left feeling that the characters are just struggling to undo poor choices. Instead, they face a harsh, unrelenting reality, where survival hinges on navigating an unforgiving world. This approach grounds the film in a stark, believable tension, making each moment resonate with an intensity that feels both inevitable and deeply human. The tension feels palpable, inviting audiences to imagine themselves in the same high-stakes situations the characters face, putting the ‘thrill’ into Thriller.
The monsters in Elevation are revealed early on… and they are undeniably terrifying. Their grotesque design adds an unsettling layer to the film, ensuring that audiences are acutely aware of the threat they pose from the outset. The tension throughout the movie remains palpable, whether the characters seem safe in their shelter or are frantically fleeing from these menacing creatures. This constant sense of unease keeps viewers engaged, as the threat feels omnipresent and ever-looming. Not everything is as it seems, which may elicit intrigue or an eye-roll from audiences.
Ultimately, Elevation carves out a niche in the post-apocalyptic genre, transforming a tired landscape of clichés into a vivid tapestry of gripping storytelling and atmospheric tension. The stunning cinematography enhances this narrative, showcasing nature’s beauty and terror in equal measure. While some dialogue may stumble at times, causing some moments of disconnection, the film compensates with its detailed world-building and exciting action sequences. These elements effectively pull audiences into its bleak reality, allowing them to forge connections with the characters as they struggle to make choices. In doing so, Elevation is not only entertaining but invites you to reflect on themes of resilience and the human spirit in the face of chaos. That is why Cryptic Rock gives it 3 out of 5 stars.
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