Pet Sematary has been a favorite book and movie among horror fans for decades. So, when news came out that a prequel was in the works, some were super excited. The thought of exploring the mythology behind the horrific tale was enticing, and the final product mostly works.
Pet Sematary: Bloodlines was directed by Lindsey Anderson Beer and co-written by Beer and Jeff Buhler based on the story by Stephen King. The film stars Jackson White, Forrest Goodluck, Jack Mulhern, Henry Thomas, Natalie Alyn Lind, Isabella Star LaBlanc, Samantha Mathis, Pam Grier and David Duchovny.
Bloodlines is set in the town of Ludlow, Maine in 1969. A young Jud Crandall, a character that we saw in the original Pet Sematary movie, discovers a dark family history that will keep him bound to the town for eternity. The town is gripped by an ancient evil, and Jud and his childhood friends must band together to fight against it. Bloodlines works well as a prequel, exploring the reasons behind the evil that we witness in the original movie.
Beer does an outstanding job of directing the film, starting with the setting and ambiance. The movie takes a different path than its predecessor, with much-needed depth to the Ludlow mythology, which enhances the source material.
It is a challenge for a prequel to feel authentic to the original movie, but Bloodlines knew what it wanted to achieve and succeeded in that effort for the most part. The film may not match the original, but it builds upon the lore, paving the way for future generations of horrors and an exciting cast of new characters.
The film has plenty of gore, which is great if you are a fan of it, but also highlights the consequences of human actions. It’s a story about love, grief, and the lengths one would go to bring back a loved one from the dead. Pet Sematary: Bloodlines expands the Pet Sematary story in amazing ways, and fans will enjoy how it fits into the overall tale.
Bloodlines is a movie worth watching if you are a fan of Pet Sematary and Stephen King. With an excellent director, a fresh take of the setting, and good pacing, it is a prequel that has not buried the franchise but enhanced it for future generations of horror fans. The themes of love, grief, and morality are always relevant, and Bloodlines does an excellent job of exploring them.
Pet Sematary: Bloodlines hit Paramount+ on October 6 and is available for streaming now!
This review is a Feature Review during the Capes and Tights Horror Week 2023.
