The Final Destination franchise returns to theaters this weekend with its sixth installment, Final Destination: Bloodlines. The six-movie series follows a pattern of methodical deaths without a traditional slasher villain, instead relying on an unseen force referred to as “Death” that exacts revenge on those who defy fate. This concept has proven to be the devilish appeal of the franchise, with the first five movies earning over $666 million at the international box office.
The latest installment takes a different approach by delving into the mythology of the series. The film begins with a spectacular disaster in a restaurant 500 feet in the air and follows Stefani Reyes as she uncovers her grandmother’s vision of the impending doom, which was revealed decades ago. As Iris, the family matriarch, explains to her granddaughter, “Death doesn’t like it when you fuck with his plans.” The film’s visuals are its strongest aspect, with a classy tone that stands out from previous films in the series.
The underlying inevitability of the plot is at odds with the suspense expected from horror movies. However, Bloodlines strikes a balance between gruesome and funny, with moments of poignancy that make it a standout in the franchise. The film’s world-building is expanded to include new rules and themes, particularly one that introduces a “bloodline” system where the curse can be broken if you die but are brought back to life.
The return of Tony Todd as William Bludworth, the mortician who narrates most of the films, adds an emotional depth to the story. Todd’s presence is felt throughout the film, and his final scenes are particularly impactful. With a renewed focus on taking death seriously, Bloodlines marks a turning point in the franchise’s trajectory.
Final Destination: Bloodlines offers a fresh take on the series while maintaining its signature style. With its naturalistic acting, pleasing aesthetics, and expanded mythology, this film is a must-watch for fans of the franchise and horror enthusiasts alike.
Source: https://slate.com/culture/2025/05/final-destination-6-bloodlines-tony-todd-movie-review.html