Movie review: The Lazarus Effect

Frank and Zoe are leading a research team with the unimaginable goal of bringing the dead back to life. After success with an animal the team begins announcing their success only to be shut down by the university dean. Striking out on their own the group continues only to have Zoe killed which results in her being their first human test subject.

Mark Duplass (Frank), Olivia Wilde (Zoe), Sarah Bolger (Eva), Evan Peters (Clay), Donald Glover (Niko), Ray Wise (Mr. Wallace), Amy Aquino (Pres. Dalley), Emily Kelavos (Little Girl), Sean Krishnan (Lawyer).

The Lazarus Effect launches with some plot setup and character introduction before the focus shifts to human experimentation. Once Zoe dies morality and ethics show up and take center stage for much of the rest of the film. To keep things interesting the horror aspect is amplified a bit which works, but really this is more psychological horror than anything else. The film moved at a slow pace through the obvious ending created to support a sequel which was frustrating as the film wasn't entertaining enough for a sequel leaving us wanting more closure.

Acting was interesting if nothing else. Much of the acting felt forced and uncomfortable for everyone. When things settled a bit Wilde began to show more delivery quality, as did Duplass. The rest of the cast was okay though several scenes felt awkward or rough.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were nicely done throughout. Even dark scenes and action exhibited good technical quality. CGI was used wisely and was well done. Dialogue was a bit dry and could have been better developed to give the film depth and move the story along at a better pace. Sound and soundtrack were good.

While The Lazarus Effect was an entertaining film on an intellectual level it felt like less of a horror and more of a drama or ethical question. Interestingly enough if the film died we probably wouldn't recommend much effort be put into resurrection, which seems ironic given the theme. Those who enjoy emotional or psychological horror will enjoy this much more than gore fans.

With disturbing imagery, horror violence, and some sexuality this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 12.20.15
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Horror Movies, Zombie Horror, Sci-Fi Horror, Sci-Fi Fantasy, Psychological Horror

copyright ©2015 Dave Riedel

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