By TOM BASHAM
I did not want to see “Evil Dead” today. Not because I was scared, really. I wanted to see either the new Robert Redford or Danny Boyle movies released today, but I can’t find them. So, when two legendary Oscar winning directors can’t get wide releases for their movies, it must be time to enter into an evil dark realm and fight the devil who rules all things. That is not a shot at Harvey Weinstein, really.
I liked the original, “THE Evil Dead” with Bruce Campbell (The Evil Dead – duh) as Ash. It was campy and quirky and a breath of fresh blood in its time. So was it a good idea to give first-time director/screenwriter Fede Alvarez $14 million, the title and concept? The short answer – no.
Poor little Mia (Jane Levy of Suburgatory) has a drug problem, and she tries to kick it by going to her mother’s remote cabin in the woods. Three friends and her brother, David (Shiloh Fernandez of Red Riding Hood), are committed to keeping her there until she is all better. This does start out as a good reason for them to be there together. It’s a nice, dusty old cabin that has not been used in years, but there is a great electric carving knife and a nail gun. How odd to highlight those out-of-place items early in the movie. I was sure that old chainsaw in the shed would never start. They are going to be just fine, even with that terrible smell they mention nine times, as long as nobody cuts the barbed wire from that old book and starts to read it. My fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Nelson told me that reading a book would not kill me. She was so wrong.
Alvarez proves to be an effective director, and he may have improved on the screenplay. Still, it’s a cabin in the woods kids slasher movie. If this came out in 1981, then Alvarez would have directed “Spiderman.”
Wait – I just heard, if I can get to Utah, Robert Redford will screen his movie for me. What was my Expedia password…oh, “Evil Dead” – 2 stars, one step above ordinary hack horror. Bless you Sam Raimi for not re-making it, but damn you to hell for letting someone else do it. You should have just kept putting roman numerals after the title like everybody else.
Tom Basham is a Virginia filmmaker and writes BashMovies.
Recent Stories
The U.S. Department of Education has recognized Dale City and Mullen Elementary Schools as 2024 Green Ribbon Schools, making them the only two schools in Virginia to receive the honor.
We need your expertise to settle the ultimate debate: Who serves the best pizza in Potomac Local Land? Whether you’re a fan of thin crust, deep dish, or something in between, your opinion matters!
On May 1, 2024, Jose Rafael Lizama, a 47-year-old resident of Manassas Park, made his first appearance in front of Prince William County Judge Wallace S. Covington. Lizama is accused of driving drunk and striking Justin Burns, of Blackstone, who was crossing the 8900 block of Center Street in downtown Manassas, near Old Town Sports Pub, just before 11 p.m. on December 2, 2023.
Recent protests erupted at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Charlottesville, and Mary Washington University, drawing attention to various issues ranging from campus safety concerns to social justice grievances. Tensions escalated as demonstrators voiced their demands, prompting discussions about the handling of protests and potential implications for campus communities.
We are honored to have the Honorable Andrea O. Bailey of the Potomac District, along with the esteemed leadership of Prince William County, hosting our 4th Annual 5K Walk for Mental Health Awareness. This event is a testament to their commitment to educate, advocate for, and dispel myths and stigma surrounding mental illness.
Dust off your running or walking shoes, bring your pets, and move with us in this county-wide FREE event in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month on Saturday, May 18th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This year’s theme is Movement: Moving for Your Mental Health.
We will walk along a scenic multi-purpose trail in a wooded setting with sufficient signage to meet the needs of the walkers at Locust Shade Park, 4701 Locust Shade Drive, Triangle, Virginia 22192.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Struggling with anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life with our professional psychotherapy services.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need on your journey to mental wellness.
Through personalized therapy sessions, we create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you’re dealing with past traumas, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we tailor our approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
