Elevation (2024) is an American post-apocalyptic action-horror film directed by George Nolfi, with a screenplay by Kenny Ryan and Jacob Roman. The film stars Anthony Mackie, Morena Baccarin, and Maddie Hasson, and was released in the United States on November 8, 2024. Set in a world ravaged by an unknown global catastrophe, Elevation explores themes of survival, fear, and the unknown. The movie mixes tense action sequences with psychological horror, delivering a thrilling experience that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. However, while the film offers plenty of suspense, its plot sometimes struggles to keep up with its pacing.

The plot of Elevation follows the story of Marcus (played by Anthony Mackie), a former soldier turned survivor who is trying to navigate a world torn apart by a global catastrophe. Alongside fellow survivors, including Emma (Morena Baccarin) and Sarah (Maddie Hasson), Marcus embarks on a perilous journey through a desolate landscape. As they travel through dangerous territories, the group encounters a series of strange occurrences and horrifying entities that seem to be linked to the mysterious event that caused the end of the world. As the group struggles to survive, they are faced with both external threats and internal conflicts, leading them to question not only the nature of the apocalypse but their own humanity.

Anthony Mackie delivers a strong performance as Marcus, portraying a man who is both hardened by his past and deeply conflicted about the world he now inhabits. Mackie brings depth to his character, making Marcus relatable despite the extreme circumstances. The dynamic between Marcus and his fellow survivors, particularly with Emma (Morena Baccarin), adds an emotional layer to the film. Baccarin, known for her roles in Firefly and Gotham, brings a sense of strength and vulnerability to her character, creating a compelling partnership with Mackie’s Marcus. Meanwhile, Maddie Hasson’s portrayal of Sarah, a younger survivor who is both resourceful and frightened, provides a fresh perspective on the human experience in a world turned upside down.

One of the standout features of Elevation is its ability to build tension through atmosphere and suspense. The film takes place in a bleak and hauntingly empty world, and the cinematography plays a crucial role in conveying this sense of isolation. The decaying cities and barren landscapes create a dystopian setting that feels both familiar and deeply unsettling. The horror elements of the film are amplified by the eerie unknown, with the characters frequently encountering strange phenomena and terrifying creatures that seem to defy explanation. These elements keep the audience guessing about the true nature of the catastrophe, adding a layer of psychological horror to the action.

Despite its compelling atmosphere, Elevation sometimes falters in terms of its pacing and narrative structure. The film spends a considerable amount of time focusing on the characters’ emotional struggles and survival tactics, which are engaging, but the slow pace can drag the story down in moments where more action or answers are expected. The mystery surrounding the apocalypse is intriguing, but the film doesn’t always provide enough clarity, leaving some viewers frustrated by its lack of concrete explanations. While the suspense builds effectively, the film’s conclusion feels somewhat rushed, failing to provide the satisfying payoff that audiences might have anticipated.

The action sequences in Elevation are intense and well-choreographed, especially in the second half of the film. There are several harrowing encounters with hostile entities that test the characters’ will to survive. These moments are heightened by the film’s sound design, with sudden noises and sharp visuals creating jump-scare moments that keep viewers on edge. However, the film occasionally sacrifices character development for the sake of these action scenes, leading to moments that feel more focused on thrills than on the emotional stakes of the narrative.

In conclusion, Elevation is a thrilling action-horror film that successfully blends post-apocalyptic suspense with psychological horror. The performances from Anthony Mackie, Morena Baccarin, and Maddie Hasson anchor the story, adding depth to their characters in the midst of a chaotic and dangerous world. While the film excels in building tension and atmosphere, its pacing and narrative structure sometimes hinder the overall experience, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Nevertheless, Elevation remains an engaging watch for fans of post-apocalyptic thrillers, offering a mix of suspense, action, and horror that will keep audiences captivated, even if it doesn’t entirely fulfill its potential.