In 2019, screenwriting duo, Mark Swift & Damian Shannon penned a script titled, “Send Help.” An analyst and her mean boss are the last survivors of a plane crash. Stranded on an island, they must put aside their differences and survive. As the story progresses, all heck breaks loose. Sony green-lit the project with Sam Raimi attached as director. The studio wanted to lower the film’s budget as an exclusive for streaming services. Sam refuses to accept their deal preferring a big screen experience. As a result, Sony abandoned the project was transferred in 2024 to Disney subsidiary, 20th Century Studios. Formerly known as 20th Century Fox.
Two Years Later, Send Help officially opened in theaters worldwide earning good reviews from critics and movie goers alike. Plus, it was a commercial hit. Anyway, it’s Halloween Month. I intend to watch and review horror films throughout October. By the way, Rachel McAdams is slated to co-star in a sequel to “The Family Stone.” As of late 2026, no release date confirmed.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS.
Strong & Weak Qualities
Strong: Rachel McAdams & Dylan O’Brien both did a superb job for their respective performances.
Dennis Haysbert (David Palmer from 24) makes a brief appearance.
Sam Raimi did a decent job directing.
Mark Swift & Damian Shannon co-wrote the script. They’re known for writing “Freddy vs. Jason” and the 2009 reboot of “Friday the 13th.”
Danny Elfman orchestrated the soundtrack.
Death Scenes are brutal and not for anyone with a sensitive stomach.
Besides blood and gore, Sam’s known for gross-out scenes like snot and vomit. This makes “Ren and Stimpy” look like “Teletubbies.”
Funny Moments made me laugh. Especially, Linda’s hokey audition tape for “Survivor.”
Practical and Visual Effects were blended right.
Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.
Pacing felt normal. I was hooked since the Opening Scene.
Chemistry between Linda & Bradley serves as the main highlight.
The Tone has a good blend between seriousness and comedy.
The film’s a cross between “Misery” & “Cast Away.”
We learn about Linda & Bradley’s lives outside the workplace.
If you have a keen eye, a familiar face appears in photos and paintings in Bradley’s office.
Fun Fact: Sam Raimi attended Rachel McAdams’ getting a star on the “Walk of Fame.” He was a speaker along with Rachel’s “About Time” co-star, Domhnall Gleeson.
Weak: Scare Factor lacks genuine bone chilling terror. Didn’t give me the heebie jeebies.
A Plot Twist nearly ruined the atmosphere. Didn’t seem quite right.
The Final Verdict: B, FOR BRIGHT DAY!
I was this close to giving Send Help a B-. The last few minutes and Rachel McAdams’ performance redeemed the film. Another good horror film in 2026. Check out Send Help along with “Backrooms” & “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple.” Horror movie fans are eating good this year. Which Horror movies should I watch and review next? Please leave a comment and don’t forget to subscribe. Fingers crossed if Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s “Werwulf” lives up to the hype.
