Cautionary tales have been a part of horror since people have told scary stories involving a friend of a friend. Elevator Game is the latest horror movie to use an online challenge. Ryan (Gino Anania) has recently befriended a group who spend their time debunking urban legends. His sister disappeared months before and he believes it was a result of the titular game. In an attempt to find his her, Ryan convinces the group to take try it. He risks horrible consequences in order to discover the truth.
As popular as horror movies are, they are rarely relatable. There are exceptions like home invasion, but those are more uncomfortable than actually scary. The difference with a movie like Elevator Game is it manages to deliver its scares with a story audiences can relate to. The game originated in Korea and has been linked to high profile deaths. The rules involve riding an elevator in a specific order. The results can be everything from a mysterious woman to a journey to another world.
Director Rebekah McKendry showed off her horror bonafides with Glorious and her latest film continues to show off her talent. The story is simple and at times predictable but McKendry creates an atmosphere that keeps audiences interested. This includes a tension filled opening and some great scares. That being said, the characters are lacking.
Regrettably, the unevenness may be the biggest takeaway from Elevator Game. For all the good, there is as much that is mediocre. It is never able to deliver on its most promising moments and the lesser ones tend to linger. Much like most viral horror challenges, there is fun to be had, but it also disappoints.
Elevator Game debuts on Shudder September 15
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