“Gestört” und “extrem blutig”: Erste Reaktionen zum Horror-Comeback vom “Spider-Man”-Macher versprechen einen grandiosen Schocker! – Kino News
Horror fans have been anticipating a return to form from director Sam Raimi, and his latest film, “Send Help,” appears poised to deliver. After 17 years since his last foray into the genre, early reactions to the film are overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a must-see.
Raimi Returns to His Roots
Sam Raimi is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in horror, separate from his successful “Spider-Man” films. He gained prominence in the 1980s with the low-budget, ultra-violent “The Evil Dead” series, pushing boundaries with its innovative filmmaking. He continued to impress genre fans with “Drag Me to Hell.” “Send Help” marks his return to the horror genre after a considerable hiatus.
The Plot Unfolds
“Send Help” centers on Linda Liddle, played by Rachel McAdams, an insecure office worker constantly harassed by her boss, Dylan O’Brien. The situation takes a dramatic turn when they are stranded together on an island, reversing the power dynamic. Linda’s survival skills come to the forefront, and she turns the tables on her tormentor.
Early Praise From Critics
Following Raimi’s recent work on blockbusters like “Oz the Great and Powerful” and “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” some were skeptical about his ability to recapture his horror roots. However, initial responses on social media have been largely enthusiastic. Todd Gilchrist of Screenrant stated that “Send Help” demonstrates Raimi’s skill at entertaining audiences while simultaneously subjecting his actors to intense situations, praising the script as “smart, suspenseful and incredibly funny.”
Bill Bria, writing for DiscussingFilm, described the film as a “deliciously sadistic & demented thriller” uniquely attributable to Sam Raimi. He also noted the strong performances from Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien, who he believes effectively embody the film’s madness.
A Comparison to Psychological Thrillers
Griffin Schiller of the FilmSpeak YouTube channel found the horror-comedy to be sharply critical, even comparing it to Paul Thomas Anderson’s “There Will Be Blood.” According to Schiller, “Send Help” consistently exposes power imbalances in the workplace while “testing the limits of our stomachs.”
Jeff Conway of Forbes recommends seeing the film in theaters, specifically highlighting Rachel McAdams’ performance as a potential career best. Chris Killian of ComicBook.com asserts that “Send Help” delivers everything fans expect from a Sam Raimi horror film: disturbing imagery, over-the-top scenarios, extreme gore, and dark humor. He also praised the dynamic between McAdams and O’Brien.
What’s Next?
While initial social media reactions are overwhelmingly positive, it’s important to note that these tend to be more enthusiastic than eventual press reviews. However, the early signs are promising, suggesting that Sam Raimi may have delivered a significant genre film. “Send Help” is scheduled to release in German cinemas on January 29, 2026, allowing audiences to judge for themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Send Help” about?
“Send Help” is a horror-comedy about Linda Liddle, an office worker tormented by her boss, who find themselves stranded on an island together, leading to a reversal of power dynamics.
Who stars in “Send Help”?
Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien are the lead actors in “Send Help.”
When will “Send Help” be released in Germany?
“Send Help” is scheduled to be released in German cinemas on January 29, 2026.
Given the enthusiastic early responses, do you think Sam Raimi’s return to horror will resonate with audiences and reinvigorate the genre?