Sam Raimi has made a significant mark in the film industry, showcasing his versatility beyond horror. Even if his iconic "Evil Dead" trilogy were his only contributions, he would still be regarded as a master of the genre. However, his creative journey didn't stop there. After spending much of the 2000s delighting audiences with his acclaimed "Spider-Man" trilogy, 2009 became an ideal moment for him to return to his horror roots with a thrilling new project.
The outcome of this comeback was "Drag Me to Hell," a cleverly crafted and darkly humorous horror film that has recently become available for streaming on HBO Max. This underrated PG-13 gem features Alison Lohman in the lead role as Christine Brown, a bank loan officer in Los Angeles who seems poised for a bright future. With her own house, a supportive boyfriend named Clay (played by Justin Long), and a promotion to assistant manager on the horizon, she appears to have it all.
However, her life takes a turn when Sylvia Ganush (Lorna Raver), an elderly Romani woman, seeks yet another extension on her mortgage. Seeking to impress her boss (David Paymer) and prove that she can make tough decisions, Christine declines the request, unknowingly inviting a terrible curse upon herself. What unfolds is a hilariously terrifying journey filled with grotesque hauntings that will leave a lasting impression on Christine—and the audience.
"Drag Me to Hell" serves as a wickedly entertaining morality tale, infused with dark humor and a touch of gross-out comedy. The film kicks off with a gripping opening scene featuring a child being dragged into the fiery abyss, setting the tone for Raimi's playful yet malevolent storytelling style—a hallmark that has defined his career since 1981's "The Evil Dead." In many respects, this movie feels like an extended episode of "Tales from the Crypt," complete with an engaging narrative hook, an abundance of bizarre scenarios, and a twist ending that keeps viewers guessing.
Over time, the film has gained popularity, with audiences sharing laughs over memorable moments such as Christine wielding a massive prop fork. Raimi excels at embracing campy elements, but what stands out about "Drag Me to Hell" is its surprising level of violence and its ability to push the boundaries of PG-13 horror. Visual effects artists Greg Nicotero and Howard Berger deliver not only blood but also an array of disgusting substances that rain down on Lohman's character, showcasing Raimi's knack for subverting expectations within the constraints of the Motion Picture Association's regulations.
Co-written by Raimi and his brother Ivan, the screenplay masterfully intertwines comedy and horror, allowing them to complement each other effectively. Even during a pivotal séance scene, there's time for some classic "Evil Dead" antics, particularly the hilarious moment when a demon possesses a goat to communicate.
Alison Lohman shines as the protagonist, facing relentless trials akin to those endured by Bruce Campbell in Raimi's earlier works. In "Drag Me to Hell," Lohman takes center stage, proving her mettle as she executes many of her stunts. One standout moment occurs when her boyfriend Clay reminds her about their cat, prompting a half-hearted grin that hints at the dark humor lurking beneath her character's circumstances.
Beneath Lohman's innocent appearance lies an underlying strength that drives Christine forward, even as she encounters increasingly bizarre supernatural events. You can almost sense Raimi's glee as he subjects her to a barrage of disturbing visuals—bugs, blood, and bile included. Beyond the surface-level horror, Lohman delivers a compelling performance, imbuing her character with emotional depth and resilience.
At its core, "Drag Me to Hell" conveys a moral lesson: in a universe where misdeeds are eventually accounted for, the consequences may not always seem proportional to the offense. While Christine's denial of Mrs. Ganush's request stems from self-interest rather than malice, it carries significant weight, especially given the film's release during the late 2000s economic downturn. This narrative suggests that even well-meaning individuals can make questionable choices, and ultimately, Christine must confront the repercussions of her actions all the way to the film's unforgettable conclusion.
