Title: Multiverse of Madness
Year: 2022
Director: Sam Raimi
Country: US
Language: English
Sam Raimi's cult classic Evil Dead Trilogy (Evil Dead, Evil Dead II & Army of Darkness) was a remarkable work of cinema that blurred the lines between horror and comedy. His distinct visual style proved he was a creative force & thus was given the helm of the incredibly popular, albeit certainly flawed, Spiderman Trilogy (2001-2007). In 2022 Raimi returns to prominence with the ever anticipated Multiverse of Madness.
The Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olson) finds herself utterly wrecked after the events of WandaVision (2021). She wants to find her two imaginary children & thinks the multiverse is a possible solution to her problems.
Sam Raimi's trademark visuals appear everywhere in this film, satisfying fans of Army of Darkness (1992) due to a fair amount of references sprinkled in. With the help of cinematographer John Mathieson (Gladiator), there is no end to the kaleidoscopic visuals, cockeyed angles, and heightened POV shots. The images onscreen are quiet odd; evoking comedy & horror, with a mix of the surreal. Raimi really pushes Madness' PG-13 rating to its limit.
The pacing of Madness is relentless & Elizabeth Olson's frantic transition from sympathetic hero (Wanda) to unhinged maniac (Scarlet Witch) is a sight to behold. In some ways, Madness reminds me of Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Danny Elfman's score adds to the absurdity of the visual elements & the overall situation. It really helps set an atmosphere that feels like anything could happen at any given moment.
Audiences will complain about the lack of character development, but I feel we were treated to a satisfactory amount of MADNESS. This Doctor Strange sequel was a thrilling popcorn munching horror comedy that left me on the edge of my seat. I thought this was much better than Marvel's last cinematic venture No Way Home.
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