Based on the novel by Clive BarkerThe Hellbound Heart, David Bruckner’sHellraiser(2022) takes the original concepts of addiction, pleasure, and pain and tries to update them for Gen-Z. The original ideas are lost in translation and all that made the 1987 film starring Doug Bradley so unique, fringe, and meaningful is lost. It starts out promising, but the movie becomes too complicated by the third act. There are many tropes, tricks and stories that pile up, which makes it difficult to enjoy. Jamie Clayton, the cenobite costumes and make-up, as well as the set design are some of the movie’s redeeming features.
Riley (Odessa A’zion) is trying to stay sober by staying with her brother Matt (Brandon Flynn) and his partner Colin (Adam Faison). But the stint doesn’t last long as now she’s with Trevor (Drew Starkey), breaking into the abandoned Voight manor to steal a strange golden box called The Lament Configuration box that might be of some value. With the celebration of her stolen item, it’s right back to boozing. Her brother eventually captures her and throws the box out of the apartment.
Riley gets her things out and camp at the local playground. Riley then takes four pills and plays with the box. The contraption is quickly opened by Riley. The pills cause her to start hallucinating and she starts seeing strange figures and apparitions. Matt feels guilty and runs out to find his sister. He finds her on the pavement and comes across the configuration. Things quickly turn downhill for all of the siblings.
A video essay byYoutube channel WhatisAntiLogicthey break down why Clive Barker’s 1987 filmIt is a metaphor for drug addiction and BDSM. Although Ben Collins, Luke Piotrowski and Riley attempt to establish the same connection, the idea never comes to fruition as in the original movie. The Lament Configuration isn’t treated like the mystery it’s supposed to be in this. She should treat the box like a drug. Every time she uses the box, it’s like getting a hit. The leads are, unfortunately, written as idiots incapable of reasoning. They shout, stumble, and tumble around so much that it borders upon slapstick comedy.
Clayton is amazing as The Priest/Pinhead, and that is the only thing about this reboot which feels fresh. The costume/character look gets an upgrade that’s much more elegant, domineering, and intricate, with added melodic vocal effects that give the horror icon a different sound. The appearance of the Cenobites has been improved. Their looks and makeup are a reflection of their personalities. The group isn’t portrayed in gray but includes color in their devilish appearance that highlights the artist endeavors of those who made these looks come alive
Hellraiser2022 is a shaky attempt to revive an old franchise. The story has potential for exploration, and the script is willing to take it to the next level. However, the script chose to remain in its comfort zone. This limit prevents the film (yes, even the eight previous films) from standing alone and making a difference. HellraiserThere have been 10 films before this movie. There is nothing more disappointing than another movie that brings nothing to the table.