'Final Destination: Bloodlines' Review: Instilling Fear Into a Whole New Generation
- Elliot Lines
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
By Elliot Lines - May 13, 2025
A premise known to all, Final Destination has been a staple in the horror genre since its 2000 release. The franchise has instilled fear in an entire generation—many still can’t drive behind a log-loaded lorry without flinching. It’s been 14 years since the last instalment, and while the formula had grown tired, Final Destination: Bloodlines breaks the mould with a fresh take on being on death’s list.
The film opens in a late 60's setting, following Iris and her partner on their way to a special event grand opening. When tragedy strikes, it’s revealed to be a dream that’s been plaguing Stefani—but there may be more to it. When it’s discovered that Iris was the one with the premonition, a whole new group of people finds themselves added to death’s list.
Across the five previous instalments, the premise has remained mostly the same, with only minor, often unsuccessful, attempts at change. Bloodlines, however, reimagines the concept. By passing on her premonition to her granddaughter, the film introduces the idea that those saved decades ago have since started families—giving death a whole new generation to hunt.
The franchise is best known for its creative and brutal death scenes, and Bloodlines does not disappoint. From a lawn mower to the face, to a CT scanner mishap, and even a clever fake-death sequence, the cinema was squirming and cheering in equal measure. With every twist, death finds fresh ways to instil fear in a new audience.
While characters in this series are traditionally disposable, Bloodlines adds a family dynamic that makes you care—just a little more—when death comes knocking. The relationships are introduced smoothly, and we quickly understand the bonds (or lack thereof) between the characters. The performances from the cast are solid, giving enough depth to carry us through the story. A special mention goes to the late Tony Todd, a franchise icon, who delivers one final, chilling piece of advice on how to beat death.
Final Destination is a well-loved franchise, though the first five films certainly had their flaws. Bloodlines feels like a fresh and thrilling revival—bringing new life (and death) to the series, with inventive sequences and a cinema experience I won’t soon forget.
Final Destination: Bloodlines releases in UK cinemas May 14
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