The 2017 remake of “Flatliners” arrives with a certain level of expectation, given the cult following of the 1990 original. The film delves into the intriguing concept of near-death experiences and the afterlife, a premise that holds as much potential now as it did then. However, despite its promising idea and a talented cast, the execution falls short of delivering a memorable cinematic experience.
Directed by Niels Arden Oplev, the narrative follows five medical students who embark on a dangerous experiment to explore what lies beyond death. The group, led by Ellen Page’s character, Dr. Courtney Holmes, induces near-death experiences in hopes of gaining insight into the afterlife. The cast, which includes Diego Luna, Nina Dobrev, James Norton, and Kiersey Clemons, delivers commendable performances, grappling with the weighty themes of life, death, and guilt.
The film’s visual aesthetics are competent, with several sequences effectively capturing the disorienting and eerie nature of the otherworldly experiences the characters undergo. However, the movie’s reliance on jump scares and horror clichés detracts from the psychological and philosophical depth the story could have explored. The result is a film that feels more like a conventional horror flick rather than the thought-provoking sci-fi thriller it aspires to be.
Critics have pointed out that “Flatliners” (2017) does not significantly improve upon its source material, and some argue that it fails to tap into the sense of wonder and terror inherent in its story. The consensus seems to be that while the film is not a complete misfire, it does not fully realize the potential of its high-concept premise. The narrative’s resolution has been described as too neat, leaving little room for the ambiguity and moral complexity that could have made the film more impactful.
In the Nutshell
“Flatliners” (2017) is a film that had the ingredients to be a compelling exploration of mortality and the unknown. Unfortunately, it settles into a familiar pattern that doesn’t quite resonate with the depth and originality one might hope for. It’s a movie that may entertain those looking for a blend of sci-fi and horror elements but is unlikely to satisfy viewers seeking a profound meditation on life and death. For those interested in the concept, revisiting the original or exploring other works on the subject might prove more fulfilling.
If you already saw this movie, help us rate the movie by click on the Star Rating.
Profile
Genre: Paranormal, Sci-fi
You can watch on: