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Ready or Not: Movie Review

ready-or-not | Fox Searchlight Pictures
ready-or-not | Fox Searchlight Pictures

Ready or Not is aptly titled, as it is going somewhere with its audience whether they are… Ready or Not. I for one, was not ready; I was not ready for the bizarre, gore-filled path this movie takes; I was not ready for how funny this movie is; I was not ready for Ready or Not to be a great movie. Though it may prove to be too much for some audiences to stomach.

The film begins with Grace, who is getting married to her future husband, Alex Le Domas, of the famous Le Domas gaming company. The only thing is that this family has a tradition. Whenever a new member joins the family, they must play a game. And Grace’s game is Hide n’ Seek, with a twist, she hides, and the others not only have to find her, but also kill her.

Here Comes the Bride Dressed in Red and White

Ready of Not | Fox Searchlight Pictures
Ready of Not | Fox Searchlight Pictures

With a concept as strange as this, it’s hard not to think of Ready or Not as an older B-movie, the film knows this, and uses it to its advantage. It is campy, tense, gory, and absolutely hilarious. And while there are some poorly developed characters and plot threads that hamper the film, it is still a blast from start to finish.

Starting things off, the acting is great almost all around. There are a few characters that aren’t as strongly developed as others, some even have mysterious backstories that don’t go anywhere or do anything. The standouts by far are Samara Weaving as Grace, and Adam Brody as Alex’s brother Daniel Le Domas. Both lean in to the silly concept and  make it feel genuine.

The biggest strength of the movie is its use of comedy. This film’s premise is too weird to ever take seriously, so thankfully it never is. There is always someone acting nutty or some great punchline waiting to relieve the tensest moments and bring your heart back to a steady pace. It’s morbid, dark tone however may prove to be too much for those uncomfortable with things like Death and Satanism.

Horror fans, and fans of intriguing, unique, and batty movie concepts will have a great time with Ready or Not. Even fans of Gore will find some things to enjoy in here. But it’s black comedy and over the top violence may ward off queasy viewers.

Ready or Not walks down the aisle with confidence, while also being soaked in blood and wearing and torn up dress.

Ready or Not

8.5 out of 10

1 hr 35 mins. Horror, Comedy, Thriller.

Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillet.

Starring Samara Weaving, Adam Brody, Mark O’Brien, Henry Czerny, and Andie MacDowell.

Now Playing at Film.ca Cinemas, Cineplex Winston Churchill, and Cineplex Oakville & VIP.