‘Elevation’ (2024) Movie Review - Feels More Like a Video Game

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Elevation crafts a compelling post-apocalyptic tale with breathtaking cinematography and an emotional core that strives to rise above its narrative flaws. Directed by George Nolfi, the film’s premise is rich with potential: alien-like creatures called "reapers" have exterminated 95% of the human population. For reasons left mostly unexplored, these deadly predators cannot ascend beyond 8,000 feet, leaving mountainous areas like Colorado as the last bastions of human survival.

The story follows Will (Anthony Mackie), a single father navigating this harrowing reality with his son Hunter (Danny Boyd Jr.), whose respiratory issues add layers of vulnerability to their already precarious existence. Will’s resolve is tested when Hunter’s health worsens, forcing him to descend below the safety threshold in a desperate attempt to procure life-saving resources. Accompanying him are Nina (Morena Baccarin), a physicist intent on eradicating the reapers, and Katie (Maddie Hasson), a loyal family friend.  Together will they save Hunter?

One of the strongest aspects of Elevation is the performances, particularly Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Will. Mackie brings gravitas and humanity to the role, effectively conveying a father’s determination and quiet despair in the face of insurmountable odds. Danny Boyd Jr. is equally compelling as Hunter, adding a layer of innocence and emotional weight to the narrative. Morena Baccarin and Maddie Hasson round out the cast with commendable performances, though their characters often feel underutilized due to the script’s limited depth.

Visually, the film is a triumph. The sweeping shots of the Rocky Mountains do more than set the stage; they elevate the story’s sense of isolation and fragile hope. The contrast between the serene, untouched beauty of the mountains and the lurking, off-screen threat of the reapers is haunting. Additionally, the sound design deserves praise. The eerie clicking noises of the reapers create a palpable sense of dread, even though the creatures themselves are rarely seen. This decision works in the film's favor, building tension through suggestion rather than explicit visual effects.

Despite its strong foundation, Elevations stumbles in its execution. The plot raises more questions than it answers, particularly regarding the reapers' origin and their mysterious aversion to altitude. While ambiguity can be effective in post-apocalyptic narratives, here it feels more like a missed opportunity than a deliberate creative choice.

The pacing is another issue. The film spends too much time meandering in the mountains before the characters finally venture into the danger zone. When the action does pick up, it feels rushed and underwhelming, robbing the climax of its intended impact. Character development also takes a backseat. Nina, presented as a brilliant physicist, is frustratingly sidelined, reduced to delivering expository dialogue and acting as a plot device. Similarly, Katie’s role feels underwritten, leaving her motivations and backstory largely unexplored.

While Elevation doesn’t fully capitalize on its intriguing premise, it offers enough emotional beats and visual splendor to hold viewers' attention. Anthony Mackie’s heartfelt performance anchors the film, and the stunning cinematography provides a memorable backdrop. However, the lack of narrative coherence and missed opportunities for world-building make Elevate a mixed bag.

For fans of post-apocalyptic dramas, Elevation might still be worth the journey—but be prepared for a story that doesn’t quite reach the heights it promises.

Final Score- [5/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times