Final Destination has made a thrilling comeback, and it’s no exaggeration to say that this new installment, Bloodlines, takes the franchise to shocking new heights. With each death more brutal than the last, the chilling sequence of events shines brighter than any we’ve seen in previous films. As a devoted fan of the series, I not only proclaim that this sixth installment is a must-watch, but I also recognize it has achieved a notable 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Final Destination: Bloodlines begins with Stefanie, our lead, haunted by dreams of her grandmother. She uncovers the horrific Sky Tower incident from 50 years ago, setting her on a treacherous path. Determined to protect her bloodline, Stefanie finds herself retracing the steps shown by her grandmother. Before you head to the theater, be sure to check out our review of Final Destination: Bloodlines.
Spoiler Warning:
This post contains major spoilers from Final Destination: Bloodlines. Proceed with caution.
Final Destination: Bloodlines Stands Tall Compared to Previous Installments
If you’re familiar with Final Destination, the premise may feel reminiscent: a person foresees their demise and narrowly escapes, only to find themselves pursued by death. Most earlier films featured a mixed group of characters, but Bloodlines dives deeper into a cursed family’s struggle against fate.
After the release of the fifth film in 2011, fans waited 14 long years for Bloodlines. As the slasher genre developed over the years, Bloodlines offers creative, edge-of-your-seat deaths that could rival hits like Thanksgiving and Halloween Ends, catering to the 2025 audience.
With many inventive slasher films emerging during this hiatus, Bloodlines was tasked not only with surpassing its predecessor but also with outshining contemporary competition.
I’m happy to report that Final Destination: Bloodlines excels compared to modern entries in the genre. While previous installments featured swift demises, this film enhances the horror by showcasing excruciatingly slow and painful deaths. For instance, Erik’s demise is so drawn-out that it’ll leave you squirming in your seat, just like other characters’ tragic ends.
Moreover, Bloodlines highlights its characters’ human elements. For example, when Brenda reveals Erik’s true identity, the group’s concern for Bobby—now potentially next in line for death—adds depth and tension. You can’t help but smile as they scramble to keep dangerous objects and peanut butter away from him.
The narrative of Bloodlines surpasses earlier installments, making death feel present through ominous weather changes and sudden shifts in atmosphere. It builds a palpable sense of dread, ensuring we finally respect and fear the unseen force manipulating events throughout the previous films.
Bloodlines Surprises with Its Storyline
Unlike previous films, which showed characters dropping like flies in predetermined succession, Bloodlines takes an unexpected turn, particularly when Julia unexpectedly meets her end while everyone frets over Erik.
Later, we discover Erik doesn’t belong to the Campbell bloodline, which explains his survival from an explosion at his tattoo shop. Bloodlines distracts viewers effectively after this revelation, only to shock us again with Erik’s agonizing demise.
The marketing campaign led us to presume Erik would perish in the tattoo store according to the trailers. However, when he dies later on, it’s not for having cheated death previously but for intervening between Bobby and the grim reaper. This shocking twist will undoubtedly haunt your thoughts for days. I’m grateful Bloodlines took this risk with Erik’s character and executed it perfectly, filling a gap previous entries left behind.
Stellar Performances Enhance the Experience
Though Tony Todd remains the only well-known face in the film, the cast comprises fresh talent, each giving their all to make the characters come alive. The choice was savvy, as the success of Final Destination: Bloodlines hinges on these remarkably dedicated performances.
While the storyline captivates, the performances deliver weight to the unfolding drama. Erik and Bobby, portrayed by Richard Harmon and Owen Joyner, respectively, stand out, demonstrating a strong brotherly bond that elicits both laughter and sympathy. Their losses hit hard, as does the brief yet impactful presence of Darlene, played by Rya Kihlstedt, adding warmth before tragedy strikes.
That said, I wish the writers would have developed Stefanie’s character more. Portrayed as an anxious teenager, she ultimately exits the story with little growth. I found myself more affected by Erik, Bobby, and Darlene’s tragedies because her journey wasn’t fully realized.
Honoring Tony Todd’s Iconic Role
With Tony Todd’s passing, watching him in his final performance evokes bittersweet feelings. His portrayal of James William Bludworth, or “JB,” remains iconic among Final Destination enthusiasts. Bloodlines not only features Todd in a cameo but it unveils the origin story of JB, exploring his deep-rooted understanding of death.
“Life is precious… enjoy every single second.” – William Bludworth
JB’s poignant farewell makes clear that following Iris’s demise, his time is running out, as he was the last to perish in the Sky Tower premonition. Although he doesn’t die on-screen, the notion that there could be no more Bludworth in a potential seventh film is a somber thought for many fans. Nonetheless, Bloodlines gives both the character and the actor a fitting sendoff.
Is Final Destination: Bloodlines Worth Watching in Theatres?
So, you might be wondering: Is Final Destination: Bloodlines worth your time in theaters? My enthusiastic response is a resounding Yes. This latest chapter in the franchise is a contemporary slasher that’s meant to be experienced on the big screen. While nostalgia is present, Bloodlines offers a fresh perspective on the classic storyline.
The inventive deaths had my stomach turning, and I genuinely connected with characters like Erik and Bobby. The film leaves a lasting impression, and I sincerely hope this franchise continues with more entries. For more exciting insights and content related to your favorite films, don’t forget to check out Moyens I/O.