Still one hell of a ride

‘Final Destination: Bloodlines’ is back to remind you that death never forgets a grudge and this time, it’s an entire family that is on the chopping block. The generational curse element brings a fresh layer of dread, though longtime fans may question whether it’s enough to warrant a sixth instalment. Is it? For the most part, yes.

The movie grabs you immediately with its 1968 observation deck disaster, a spectacular collapse that feels fresh yet totally in line with the franchise’s signature opening catastrophes. But here’s where things get interesting. Those aren’t just nightmares plaguing college student Stefani Reyes (Kaitlyn Santa Juana). They’re the actual memories of her grandmother Iris Campbell (Berc Bassinger), whose attempt to cheat death years ago has doomed their entire bloodline.

Stefani becomes determined to uncover the truth behind these premonitions, realising that death’s design is once again targeting those connected to the tragic incident decades ago.

Her younger brother, Charlie Reyes (Teo Briones), stands by her side as they face an invisible force that seems to manipulate fate itself. Together, they navigate a dangerous path, trying to outsmart a deadly sequence of events that threatens their lives.

Erik Campbell, portrayed by Richard Harmon, is a rebellious tattoo artist and Stefani’s cousin who becomes deeply involved in the fight for survival. His boldness brings a fresh dynamic to the group as they confront the terrifying reality that death is stalking them relentlessly.

Adding to the eerie atmosphere is Tony Todd’s return as William Bludworth, the enigmatic mortician whose cryptic warnings hint at the inescapable nature of death.

The family theme is a fresh twist, giving the carnage a personal edge. Death isn’t just after random survivors, it is out to erase an entire lineage, upping the stakes and the suspense.

‘Bloodlines’ weaves a suspenseful tale of fate, family secrets and survival. Through its compelling characters and chilling storyline, the film continues the franchise’s legacy of inventive scares and emotional tension, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as they witness the deadly game between life and death unfold.

From the opening disaster to a gruesome train collision that rivals ‘Final Destination 2’s highway pile-up, it is clear that the filmmakers haven’t lost their knack for spectacle. The kills are as elaborate as ever, blending absurdity with genuine terror. One standout involves an MRI machine. The scene exemplifies the franchise’s signature style of suspenseful buildup and sudden, gruesome death, turning a routine setting like a medical room into a site of horror.

Not all the deaths land perfectly; some feel telegraphed, others too reliant on graphics, but when ‘Bloodlines’ hits, it hits. The blend of practical effects and VFX is seamless.

The movie is well made, with good music and strong camera work. The directors, Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, do a great job of keeping the tension high while still giving us quiet moments with the characters. You’re always watching closely, wondering what small thing in the background might be the next big danger.

Yet, while it executes the formula well, it doesn’t evolve it. The structure remains unchanged: premonition, narrow escape, then the slow, inevitable picking off of survivors. For some part, ‘Bloodlines’ might feel like a well-crafted retread.

Fans will rejoice as the ending hints at even more chaos to come, keeping the door open for future instalments. The blood, the twists and the brutal creativity are all dialed up to satisfy even the seasoned horror fans.