Evil has been unearthed|Apr. 03, 2021|UK|90 Min.|TV-MA
Genre: Horror
Description: Titled “Rise of the Mummy,” this 2021 film serves as a follow-up, though not a direct sequel, to the 2018 movie “Mummy Reborn.” The latter was widely criticized, with some even comparing it unfavorably to a cat’s litter box. Nevertheless, producer Scott Jeffrey, known for works like “HellKat” and “Cam Girls,” decided to venture into this project again, hoping for improvement in the years since.
The story begins with the Mummy (played by Richard Lovell) chasing people through the woods. His rampage is halted by a ritual involving plant food, a fake rubber heart, and an ancient incantation. The army intervenes, shooting the youths conducting the ritual.
Later, the Mummy is found in what is supposed to be a university but is clearly a high school. Despite the army’s efforts to cover up its existence, the creature is sold to the school, where it is carelessly displayed on a table in the chemistry lab.
Even by the low standards of Scott Jeffrey’s productions, the film starts poorly. The production company’s name was changed from Proportion Pictures to Jagged Edge Productions, but this did little to improve the quality. First-time director Antonia Johnstone does her best, but the script by Shannon Holiday, known for “House on Elm Lake” and “Amityville Cornfield,” is a significant drawback.
The plot unfolds predictably when a character steals the Mummy’s jewelry, awakening the ancient being. Inspired by one of Jeffrey’s better projects, “Cupid,” the Mummy traps a group of students in the school and begins stalking them.
Overall, “Rise of the Mummy” struggles to elevate itself beyond its flaws, leaving viewers with a lackluster experience.
Cast director: Antonia Johnstone
Cast actor: Shawn C. Phillips, Megan Purvis, Abi Casson Thompson, Stephanie Lodge, Amanda-Jade Tyler, Antonia Johnstone, Kate Sandison
Original name: Rise of the Mummy