This is a hilarious, fun and savage take on a classic horror scenario, with a clan of depraved one-percenters playing the most dangerous game with a newlywed bride. In addition, we are provided a deftly skewering satire on entitlement, class resentment, familial bonds and traditional institutions in a glossy package of high production values, excellent cast and hilarious script. Samara Weaving rocks the hell out of the lead, bringing an immediate likability and charisma to the character of Grace while believably transitioning into hardened survivor. None of the satirical elements are particularly subtle, in fact there is nothing subtle in this movie whatsoever, which leaves a number of characters rather cartoonish, but works with the type of lunacy the film revels in. Everyone else appears like they're having a hell of a time relishing the extremes they are allowed to embody, from sympathetic to mustache-twirling villainy. There is a legitimate fun chemistry between the cast with absolutely hilarious banter and great timing with a script that even allows some touching moments. With a reasonable runtime of 90 minutes the script is tightly paced and taut, while still managing to develop the characters effectively. The tone skews primarily comedy, but tension and suspense built during the hunt is quite palpable. Mostly confined to a single mansion, the location is gorgeous and the lighting is exceptionally well done, adding soft candlelit hues in intimate hallways or flickering fluorescents for an abattoir: augmenting the tonality of every scene. The filmmakers are never afraid to go to some very dark places, with some genuinely jolting moments and effective gore. Grace makes a memorable heroine, effective and witty while withstanding tortuous mental, physical and emotional trials. Most of the ensemble deaths play to comedic effect and the film takes glee finding creative ways to mix horrors with hilarity, but Grace’s ordeals are handled with a more grounded seriousness. The ending might be divisive, but the twists and turns are early hinted and developed organically. Nothing particularly original, and at times bordering on absurd, but still an exceptionally fun horror-comedy romp that like its heroine is far more intelligent, witty and resourceful than suspected.
Ready or Not