She Never Died

She Never Died is an exciting and innovative horror/thriller movie that hit the screens in 2019, alluring audiences with its clever mix of thrilling horror elements and engaging storyline. Directed by Audrey Cummings and having a brilliant cast featuring Olunike Adeliyi in the lead, the film also stars Peter MacNeill, Kiana Madeira, and Michelle Nolden. Notably, the movie is a captivating standalone spin-off of the 2015 film ‘He Never Died’.

She Never Died is a film that defies the conventions of the typical horror/thriller genre while also paying tribute to them. The story revolves around the enigmatic character of Lacey (Olunike Adeliyi), an immortal being who is burdened with the peculiar compulsion of consuming human flesh. Her gruesome and solitary existence takes a dramatic turn when she crosses paths with a corrupt detective (Peter MacNeill) and becomes an unlikely heroine in his fight against a robust criminal syndicate.

The story bears striking suspense elements and a gripping narrative, which keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The narrative progresses from Lacey's initial attempt to suppress her macabre appetites to her gradual alignment with the detective's criminal pursuit. As she gets entangled in the bloody world of crime, her nightly prowls start having deeper implications. They go from being mere attempts to quell her hunger to becoming strategic moves against the syndicate’s cruel operations.

The female-led narrative is effortlessly carried by the hypnotic performance of Olunike Adeliyi. Her portrayal of Lacey is a striking blend of vulnerability and strength. She expertly shows the monstrous traits inherent in Lacey’s character while also delivering a more profound, emotional connection that finds resonance with the viewers.

Peter MacNeill, as the corrupt detective Godfrey, puts in a commendable performance, presenting the moral ambiguity of a character who, striving to achieve justice, isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. Godfrey's association with Lacey, his understanding of her capabilities, and his ultimate utilisation of her monstrous tendencies present intriguing dynamics throughout the movie.

Kiana Madeira and Michelle Nolden excel in their respective roles, adding to the film's overall intensity. Both contribute significantly to the eerie ambience and sinister plot development.

She Never Died’s concept is a refreshing contribution to the horror/thriller genre, as it seamlessly interweaves elements of supernatural horror with gritty crime thriller elements. The film's plot also reflects relevant societal issues, including human trafficking, presenting them in a harrowing and impactful manner. All these are set against a backdrop dominated by horror tropes, creating a compelling visual narrative that only enhances the film’s allure.

Einat Hakim's cinematography and Jennifer Morden's production design play key roles in the movie's aesthetic appeal. The use of dark and gritty visuals helps to paint Lacey's world in a haunting yet captivating light. The film's score, done by Steph Copeland, does a fantastic job of enhancing the narrative's suspenseful ambience.

Through its enthralling narrative and multi-dimensional characters, She Never Died achieves a successful balance between horror and thriller genres. It flawlessly combines elements of gore, suspense, and dark humor, resulting in a uniquely entertaining cinematic experience.

The film prepares the viewers for an engaging viewing experience right from the initial scenes, slowly building up to an intriguing climax without giving away too much. Audiences are held captive by the gripping suspense and escalating tension, making it a joyride of a horror experience combined with impactful societal commentary.

She Never Died stands out as a unique horror/thriller film that offers more than just cheap thrills or clichéd tropes. Its strong storyline, enriched by stellar performances, dynamic characters, and well-placed dark humor, makes for a remarkable and memorable viewing experience.