The Mosley Review: Send Help
I believe I have been blessed with not having a horrible boss to suffer through. Actually, strike that. I'm blessed to have only had to work for 1 horrible boss in my past and I'm honestly glad none life threating, but bad things have happened to him because he deserved it. We've all had horrible boss experiences and some of you may have tried to get to know why they're such terrible human beings. Well this film gloriously explores a more extreme disaster scenario that was dark, fun and hilarious. I truly loved that this film didn't waste anytime setting the moral compass for each character involved and how each layer of their personalities are revealed. The juxtaposition between a crashing of different personalities and a relaxing setting really spotlights the brilliant shifting tone as the film progresses. This film features the best of what the director is known for in sight gags of his trademark horror and gross out moments while showcasing quirkie characters you end up loving.
Rachel McAdams was fantastic as Linda Liddle. She was perfect as the classic company employee that is often overlooked and whose financial talents are taken advantage of. To me she had a Selina Kyle feel from Batman Returns without the need for leather. That awkward, charming and ignored beauty that is beneath the disheveled outer shell. Once we get to the main plot of the film, Linda finally gets put to use her ultimate survivalist skills and truly reveals her true inner strength. I loved how she quickly evolves with her surroundings and no longer remains the prey of the corporate world. Even through all of that, Rachel's insane ability to make you fall in love with her infectious charm is every present. Dylan O'Brien continues to be outstanding in everything he does and as the newly appointed CEO and Linda's boss, Bradley Preston, he truly nails the absolute slimey nature of the character. This dude was one of the most spoiled, self-centered, douches I've seen on screen in a very long time. You love to hate the guy and even when you see some sliver of decency creep up, its a smoke screen for his ulterior motive. It was hilarious and rewarding to see him struggle once the golden spoon was removed from his mouth. Linda truly humbles him as they are stuck together after a stormy crash. She makes him learn to respect her in a great scene and I loved every bit of it. The chemistry between Rachel and Dylan was great as you can tell how much fun they're having play off each other's level of intensity and calm. Don't forget that this IS a dark comedy. When they’re apart, both have great moments of disgusting, over the top and violent moments of physical comedy that were some of the highlights. Both Rachel and Dylan came to play and they did great.
Composer and frequent collaborator, Danny Elfman, delivers a great, haunting and horror fueled score that is both parts fun and dark. Once we're out of the office setting, this film opens up to a beautifully shot beach landscape and works as a visually stunning contrast to the violence and tone of the film. Director Sam Raimi has his distinct style for dark storytelling and this film has all of his trademarks. From the creepy visuals, a cheap but fun jump scare, a good luck charm cameo and ridiculous amount of blood and viscera, its all playfully sprinkled and dumped on to you. During the crash sequence, we are treated to one of the most brutal moments of the film that was inventive and painful. Neck tie is all I'll say. Overall, I enjoyed this survivalist romp on an island with two of the best leads anyone can ask for. Definitely a fun and darkly hilarious time. Let me know what you thought of the film or my review in the comments below. Thanks for reading!