Evil Dead Rise is a 2023 American supernatural horror film directed and written by Lee Cronin.
It serves as a standalone entry and the fifth installment in the Evil Dead franchise, which originated with Sam Raimi's iconic films in the 1980s. The film stars Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland as estranged sisters who must confront flesh-possessing demons that threaten their family during a reunion.
The plot centers around Beth (Sullivan), who visits her sister Ellie (Sutherland) in a cramped Los Angeles apartment. Their reunion is abruptly interrupted when they unwittingly unleash a demonic force after discovering the Necronomicon, an ancient book of evil. As the situation escalates, the sisters find themselves in a primal battle for survival against the horrific manifestations of their family's dark past.
Evil Dead Rise had its world premiere at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival on March 15, 2023, before being released theatrically in the United States on April 21, 2023. The film was initially intended for a streaming release on HBO Max but was shifted to theaters following positive test screenings. It has received favorable reviews from critics, with praise for its intense horror elements and inventive gore, while some noted that it downplays the franchise's signature humor.
The film grossed over $147 million worldwide against a budget estimated between $15 million and $19 million, making it the highest-grossing film in the Evil Dead series. It features cinematography by Dave Garbett and a score by Stephen McKeon. The film's success has led to discussions about its impact on the franchise's future.
With a runtime of 97 minutes, Evil Dead Rise continues to explore themes of familial bonds and the horrors that can arise from within, all while delivering the visceral thrills that fans of the series have come to expect.