Elevation (2024)

Plot & Premise

Three years after the Reapers annihilated most of civilization, the few remaining survivors cling to life in high-altitude mountain towns. Will (Anthony Mackie), a widowed father, lives with his ailing son, Hunter, in Lost Gulch Refuge. When Hunter’s oxygen filters begin to fail, Will is forced to make a daring descent into the deadly lowlands. Joined by scientist Nina (Morena Baccarin) and tough survivor Katie (Maddie Hasson), he embarks on a mission to secure supplies and search for a potential way to defeat the Reapers.

Cast & Characters

• Anthony Mackie as Will, a determined father with everything to lose.

• Morena Baccarin as Nina, a brilliant scientist chasing the creatures' weakness.

• Maddie Hasson as Katie, a bold survivor with a dark past.

• Danny Boyd Jr. as Hunter, a boy clinging to life and hope in equal measure.

Visual Style & Themes

Shot in Colorado's rugged alpine terrain, Elevation emphasizes the isolation and danger of the high-altitude wilderness. The film captures vast, snow-covered expanses contrasted with claustrophobic underground tunnels. The Reapers—towering, nightmarish insect-like monsters—are portrayed through detailed CGI, creating moments of high tension and horror.

Critical Response

Critics gave Elevation mixed reviews, praising its unique premise and Anthony Mackie's performance while noting that it relies on familiar sci-fi survival tropes. Audiences, however, responded more favorably, especially appreciating the emotional depth and suspenseful pacing. Many viewers compared it to A Quiet Place and The Mist for its creature-centric tension and personal stakes.

Release & Reception

Elevation debuted in theaters in late 2024 and was later released on major streaming platforms. It quickly gained attention for its high-concept setting and genre-blending style, becoming a surprise hit among fans of apocalyptic thrillers.

Final Thoughts

Elevation may not reinvent the survival-horror genre, but it delivers a gripping, visually stunning ride with strong performances and a chilling atmosphere. If you enjoy monster movies with emotional cores and breathtaking landscapes, this film deserves a spot on your watchlist.