The goal of shock horror is to startle viewers with inexplicable or bizarre events to evoke strong emotional responses. “Final Destination” is an excellent example of one movie that masters this technique. Though the series seemed to be over several installments ago, it’s thrilling to see that there’s always more to come. “Final Destination: Bloodlines,” the latest addendum to the series, promises a fresh start for horror fans. Considering that it has been over a decade since the last release, this is another intriguing development.
Fated Starts
It all began with a vision for one of the passengers in “Final Destination.” Because of the commotion, he and his classmates were removed from the plane. Although he was the hero of the moment, their rescue was temporary. The core of this franchise centers on the premise that death is inevitable, death always takes what’s due.
Death reclaimed what it had marked across five subsequent films. This means that the last film was initially positioned as a full-circle conclusion. That didn’t stick for long. The teaser for the next installment was recently released, and it is jaw-dropping
Final Destination Blood Lines: A Sneak Peak
The trailer makes clear that body horror will be an integral component of this film. But those who have been loyal to the franchise understand that this is not abnormal; it is a signature component of the series. The teaser begins with a close-up of a tattoo artist performing a piercing. From his demeanor, and how he calls after the last client leaving the shop, he’s not exactly living a carefree life.
The frame shifts to our character closing the doors to shop before disinfecting his workspace. Our attention is then drawn to heavy chains which hang from ceiling. He then looks at his playlist and selects “All By Myself,” one of the most haunting and emotional songs ever written. The words drip with the somber reality of being alone. This song continues to play as it is revealed that he has been working on a tattoo. The freshly stenciled letters on his forearm read, “Dad!”
Death Stakes Its Claim
The atmosphere grows darker as the camera pans, re-focusing on various items in the parlor—iron chains, disinfectant, a fan—all suggesting disaster ahead. And we cover our eyes. The subsequent frame confirms this catastrophic feeling. And then we see it. The character fights for his life in solitude. While this does not give viewers a lot to chew on it does give us something. The death or near-death experience in the trailer suggests something about our plot, especially given the designated premise.
It’s easy to deduce that the title Bloodlines could be directly related to our tatoo artist. But what we don’t know is how. As THR (The Hollywood Reporter) states,
Bloodlines revolves around Stephanie, a female protagonist who is driven by a goal that is critical to the continuation of her bloodline. Stephanie is determined to find the one person who can stop the cycle that led to her family members’ deaths.
A New Era of Final Destination
Pushing the Narrative Forward
Adding the idea of a genetic link drives the story in a unique direction. It makes death’s plan seem strategically complex. Bringing to the forefront that maybe the deaths of the primary charcters throughout the franchise are not totally random there is something deeper. Maybe there is a solution.
It does not hurt that this angle makes it easy to expand the franchise without necessarily destroying everything built up to this point. It will be interesting to see how this story develops.
The Wait is On
The “Final Destination” franchise thrives on the principle of “don’t fix what isn’t broken.” Obviously the formula works or we would not be getting a sixth film. And it is a feasible argument. Will this be the installment that tarnishes what has already been built.
It is always wise to consider that there comes a point when one has to let it all go and appreciate something for what it was.
I’m not sure why we need this film, but I’m all for it simply becuase I am a film enthusiast. I enjoy good narratives and like being entertained, and the Final Destination franchise has always fulfilled both desires. So I say bring it on. And for anyone who wants to mark their calenders. “Final Destination Bloodlines” is scheduled to premiere on May 16th.
Uncut Diamonds 