Quick Facts: Send Help (2026)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | Send Help |
| Director | Sam Raimi |
| Lead Cast | Rachel McAdams, Dylan O'Brien |
| Supporting Cast | Dennis Haysbert, Chris Pang, Edyll Ismail, Xavier Samuel, Bruce Campbell |
| Writers | Damian Shannon & Mark Swift |
| Composer | Danny Elfman |
| Genre | Survival Horror / Dark Comedy / Psychological Thriller |
| Theatrical Release | January 30, 2026 (USA & India) |
| World Premiere | January 21, 2026 (TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood) |
| Studio | 20th Century Studios (Disney) |
| Rating | R (Strong bloody violence and language) |
| Runtime | 113 minutes (1 hour 53 minutes) |
| Expected India OTT | Disney+ Hotstar (Late April/May 2026) |
Table of Contents
Introduction: Sam Raimi Returns to Horror
The wait is finally over for horror enthusiasts worldwide. Sam Raimi, the visionary filmmaker who revolutionized horror cinema with The Evil Dead franchise and later redefined superhero movies with the original Spider-Man trilogy, is officially back in the director's chair for his most intense project in decades.
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Send Help marks Raimi's first pure horror directorial venture since 2009's Drag Me to Hell and his first R-rated film since The Gift in 2000. This 20th Century Studios production combines everything fans love about Raimi's work: inventive camera techniques, darkly comedic moments, visceral horror, and unforgettable character dynamics.
After spending years in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Raimi has pivoted back to his roots, delivering what early reviewers are calling "a violent, blood-soaked masterpiece" and "pure Raimi at his unhinged best."
The film brings together Academy Award nominee Rachel McAdams and Maze Runner star Dylan O'Brien in a twisted tale of survival, revenge, and the complete breakdown of workplace hierarchy when civilization is stripped away.
Send Help Plot: "Misery Meets Cast Away"
The Premise
At its core, Send Help presents a deceptively simple yet terrifying question: What happens when you're stranded on a deserted island with the one person you despise most in the world?
The story follows Linda Liddle (Rachel McAdams), a brilliant but chronically underappreciated employee in a corporate consulting firm's strategy department. Despite being the "smartest person in the room," Linda has been repeatedly passed over for promotions while watching less capable colleagues climb the corporate ladder.
Her new CEO, Bradley Preston (Dylan O'Brien), is the epitome of privileged incompetence—a "nepo-baby" who inherited the company from his father and treats his employees with casual cruelty and sexist condescension. His father had explicitly wanted him to promote Linda, but Bradley has done everything to keep her marginalized.
The Crash
During a business trip to Bangkok meant to prove Linda's worth in a crucial merger deal, a violent storm causes their private plane to crash into the Pacific Ocean. Linda and Bradley emerge as the only two survivors, washing up on a remote, uninhabited island with no food, no water, and no hope of immediate rescue.
The Power Shift
Here's where Send Help becomes something far more sinister than a typical survival story:
- In the boardroom, Bradley held all the power—authority over Linda's career, salary, and professional future
- On the island, he is completely helpless—unable to start a fire, find food, or even build basic shelter
- Linda, however, possesses serious survival skills that suddenly make her the most valuable person in their two-person society
As days turn into weeks, the film evolves from a survival drama into a psychological nightmare. The professional hierarchy that protected Bradley collapses entirely, and a new, far more brutal power structure begins to emerge.
Key Themes
The screenplay by Damian Shannon and Mark Swift (known for Freddy vs. Jason and the Friday the 13th reboot) explores several layered themes:
- Toxic Workplace Culture: The horror of having a bad boss, amplified to life-or-death stakes
- Gender and Power: A woman's quiet competence versus a man's unearned entitlement
- Class Dynamics: How privilege becomes meaningless when survival is all that matters
- Revenge Fantasy: The dark satisfaction of watching karma catch up with an arrogant superior
- Moral Ambiguity: As circumstances flip, the audience is left questioning who the real monster is
Note:
Reports from early screenings suggest the island itself may hold additional secrets, adding supernatural or environmental horror elements to the already tense human drama.
Complete Cast and Crew Details
Lead Cast
Rachel McAdams as Linda Liddle
Fresh off receiving her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (January 20, 2026), McAdams delivers what critics are calling a "career-best performance." Her transformation from timid, overlooked employee to survivalist warrior anchors the entire film.
McAdams previously worked with Raimi on Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and their renewed collaboration has produced something far grittier and more physically demanding than her MCU role.
Dylan O'Brien as Bradley Preston
Known for The Maze Runner franchise, Teen Wolf, and Love and Monsters, O'Brien plays completely against type as the villainous, incompetent boss. His portrayal of a tech-bro CEO who can't start a fire has generated significant praise for its blend of dark humor and genuine menace.
O'Brien makes Bradley simultaneously hateable and occasionally sympathetic, creating a complex antagonist rather than a one-dimensional villain.
Early Reviewer
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Supporting Cast
| Actor | Character | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dennis Haysbert | Franklin | Voice of authority audiences will recognize |
| Chris Pang | Chase | Known for Crazy Rich Asians |
| Edyll Ismail | Zuri | Rising talent |
| Xavier Samuel | Donovan | Twilight: Eclipse veteran |
| Thaneth Warakulnukroh | Boat Captain | Thai actor |
| Emma Raimi | River | Director's daughter |
| Bruce Campbell | TBA | Fan-favorite Raimi collaborator |
Creative Team
Director & Producer: Sam Raimi
Raimi brings his legendary visual style to Send Help, including his trademark:
- Rapid-fire editing
- Dynamic, swooping camera movements
- "Splatstick" horror-comedy blend
- Practical effects alongside CGI
Writers: Damian Shannon & Mark Swift
The duo behind horror classics like Freddy vs. Jason and the 2009 Friday the 13th reboot crafted an original screenplay that balances survival tension with sharp workplace satire.
Composer: Danny Elfman
Raimi's long-time collaborator (from Spider-Man to countless Tim Burton films) returns to score the film, ensuring the atmosphere is as haunting as the visuals.
Production Details
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Principal Photography | February – April 2025 |
| Filming Locations | Sydney, Los Angeles, Thailand |
| Budget | Not officially disclosed |
| Visual Style | Practical effects with CGI enhancement |
Release Date: India and Worldwide Rollout
India Theatrical Release
Send Help releases in Indian cinemas on Friday, January 30, 2026, day-and-date with the United States wide opening. This simultaneous release reflects Disney's confidence in the film's global appeal and Sam Raimi's significant fanbase in India.
| India Release Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | January 30, 2026 |
| Distributor | 20th Century Studios (Disney) |
| Expected Chains | PVR, INOX, Cinepolis, and major multiplexes |
| Language | English (Hindi, Tamil, Telugu dubs possible but not confirmed) |
| Formats | 2D standard, with some 3D and premium format screenings expected |
Worldwide Release Schedule
| Region/Country | Release Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | January 30, 2026 | Wide release |
| India | January 30, 2026 | Day-and-date with US |
| Germany/Austria | January 29, 2026 | One day early |
| Italy | January 29, 2026 | One day early |
| Australia | January 29, 2026 | One day early |
| Saudi Arabia/UAE | January 29, 2026 | VOX Cinemas |
| Malaysia | January 29, 2026 | GSC listings |
| United Kingdom | February 5-6, 2026 | Week after US |
| France | February 11, 2026 | Via Disney France |
| Brazil | February 12, 2026 | Local title: Socorro! |
World Premiere and Festival Buzz
TCL Chinese Theatre Premiere
Disney and 20th Century Studios hosted the official world premiere at TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX in Hollywood on January 21, 2026. The star-studded red carpet event featured:
- Rachel McAdams
- Dylan O'Brien
- Sam Raimi
- Edyll Ismail
- Chris Pang
- Producer Zainab Azizi
- Composer Danny Elfman
The premiere generated immediate buzz on social media, with attendees describing the film as "absolutely insane," "gloriously mean-spirited," and "everything fans wanted from Raimi's horror comeback."
Premiere Reaction
Gérardmer International Fantastic Film Festival
In a significant honor, Send Help was selected as the opening film (out of competition) at the Gérardmer 2026 festival in France, one of Europe's premier genre film showcases.
This selection:
- Signals confidence from the festival circuit in Raimi's psychological horror approach
- Places the film alongside auteur-driven horror projects that Gérardmer has championed
- Adds prestige beyond mainstream marketing
Early Reviews and Critical Reception
First Reactions from Press Screenings
Following advance screenings in the days after the premiere, social media and entertainment outlets have been flooded with overwhelmingly positive reactions. Common descriptors include:
- "Deliciously sadistic"
- "Demented and gloriously entertaining"
- "Pure Raimi at his unhinged best"
- "A massive win for Drag Me to Hell fans"
- "Hilariously mean and extremely bloody"
- "One of the grossest 3D movies yet made"
- "A must-see theatrical experience"
Performance Praise
Rachel McAdams has received particular acclaim:
Career-best performance. A physically demanding, emotionally layered triumph. Her transformation from timid to terrifying is unforgettable.
Critical Consensus
Dylan O'Brien's against-type casting has also earned praise for making Bradley "simultaneously hateable and occasionally sympathetic" and creating "the ideal Raimi villain."
Comparison to Raimi's Filmography
| Film | Similarity |
|---|---|
| Drag Me to Hell | Roller-coaster pacing, exaggerated comedy, sharp scares |
| Evil Dead trilogy | Practical gore, slapstick violence, wild camera work |
| A Simple Plan | Psychological deterioration, moral ambiguity |
| The Gift | Character-driven thriller elements |
Age Rating and Content Warning
Official Ratings
United States (MPAA): Rated R for strong/bloody violence and language
This makes Send Help Sam Raimi's first R-rated directorial effort since The Gift in 2000—even Drag Me to Hell carried a PG-13 rating despite its intensity.
International Ratings:
- Malaysia: 18+
- Other territories: Varies, but consistently adult-only classifications
India CBFC Status
As of the latest reports, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has not publicly listed its rating for Send Help. However, given the content, the movie is highly likely to receive an "A" (Adults Only) certificate in India.
Expect:
- Visceral survival injuries depicted graphically
- Sam Raimi's signature "splatstick" violence (gore meets dark comedy)
- Strong language throughout
- Intense psychological tension and disturbing scenarios
- Potentially traumatic depictions of workplace abuse taken to extremes
OTT Release: When Will It Stream in India?
What's Officially Confirmed
Disney and 20th Century Studios have confirmed:
- Send Help will release exclusively in theaters first
- The film will come to Hulu and Disney+ later in 2026 after its theatrical run
However, no exact streaming date has been officially announced for any territory, including India.
Expected OTT Platform for India
Most Likely Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Since 20th Century Studios is owned by Disney, and Disney+ Hotstar is the primary streaming destination for Disney content in India, Send Help will almost certainly land on this platform.
Expected Streaming Timeline
Recent 20th Century Studios releases typically follow a 60-90 day theatrical window before moving to streaming:
| Scenario | Estimated OTT Date |
|---|---|
| Standard Window (60 days) | Late March 2026 |
| Extended Window (90 days) | Late April 2026 |
| Strong Box Office (120 days) | Late May 2026 |
Most Realistic Estimate: Late April to Early May 2026
Why Indian Audiences Should Watch Send Help
The Sam Raimi Factor
Raimi is a household name in India thanks to:
- The original Spider-Man trilogy that defined a generation of Indian comic book fans
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, which performed exceptionally well in Indian theaters
- Cult following for Evil Dead among horror enthusiasts
Genre Trends in India
Indian audiences have shown growing appetite for:
- Hollywood horror: The Nun, Evil Dead Rise, A Quiet Place series performed strongly
- Survival thrillers: Both international (Fall, The Shallows) and domestic (Mili, Helen)
- Dark comedy: Films blending humor with horror/thriller elements
Send Help sits at the intersection of all these trends.
Thematic Relevance
While set in an American corporate context, the film's core themes resonate strongly with Indian audiences:
- Toxic workplace culture is a universal experience
- Undervalued employees dealing with incompetent superiors crosses borders
- Gender dynamics in professional settings mirror Indian corporate realities
- The karma narrative—watching an arrogant boss get comeuppance—has universal appeal
Viewing Recommendations
| Watch in Theaters If: | Wait for OTT If: |
|---|---|
| You enjoy communal horror experiences with audience reactions | You prefer pausing during intense scenes |
| You want to experience Raimi's sound design and visual tricks as intended | You want to watch with subtitles in your preferred language |
| You prefer premium formats (IMAX, 3D where available) | You're price-sensitive and prefer streaming value |
| You want to avoid spoilers on social media | You're outside major metro areas with limited English-language screenings |
Box Office Competition and Predictions
India Box Office Competition (January 30, 2026)
Send Help enters a crowded Indian theatrical landscape:
| Film | Language | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Mardaani 3 | Hindi | Crime Thriller |
| Gandhi Talks | Hindi | Experimental Drama |
| Mayasabha – The Hall of Illusions | Malayalam/Hindi | Psychological Thriller |
| Various Regional Releases | Multiple | Mixed Genres |
Target Audience in India
Given the expected A-certificate and R-rated content:
- Primary: Urban multiplex viewers aged 20-40
- Key Markets: Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune
- Format: English-language screenings in premium multiplexes
- Challenge: Limited single-screen penetration due to adult-only restriction
Box Office Predictions
Industry observers expect:
- Strong opening weekend in urban multiplexes
- Solid holds for 1-2 weeks if word-of-mouth matches early reviews
- Niche but dedicated audience for the adult horror demographic
- Quick pivot to streaming revenue once theatrical run plateaus
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Send Help movie release date in India?
Send Help releases in Indian cinemas on Friday, January 30, 2026, day-and-date with the US wide opening.
Who directed Send Help?
The film is directed by Sam Raimi, known for the Evil Dead trilogy, the original Spider-Man trilogy, and Drag Me to Hell.
Is Send Help based on a true story?
No. Send Help is an original fictional screenplay written by Damian Shannon and Mark Swift. While it uses a plane-crash survival setup, it is not based on real events.
What is the age rating for Send Help?
In the US, Send Help is rated R for strong/bloody violence and language. In India, it is expected to receive an "A" (Adults Only) certificate from the CBFC.
Is Send Help suitable for families or children?
Absolutely not. The film contains graphic violence, gore, strong language, and intense psychological content. It is intended strictly for mature adult audiences.
How long is Send Help?
The runtime is approximately 113 minutes (1 hour 53 minutes).
Who are the main actors in Send Help?
The leads are Rachel McAdams as Linda Liddle and Dylan O'Brien as Bradley Preston. Supporting cast includes Dennis Haysbert, Chris Pang, Edyll Ismail, Xavier Samuel, Emma Raimi, and Bruce Campbell.
Is Bruce Campbell in Send Help?
Yes, Bruce Campbell, Sam Raimi's long-time collaborator from Evil Dead, appears in the film. The nature of his role has been kept under wraps.
When will Send Help release on OTT in India?
Disney has confirmed the film will stream on Disney+ (and Hulu in the US) "later in 2026." For India, Disney+ Hotstar is the expected platform. Based on typical 90-day windows, streaming could begin around late April to May 2026, but no official date has been announced.
Will Send Help be on Netflix or Amazon Prime?
No. As a 20th Century Studios (Disney) production, Send Help will stream exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar in India.
Will Send Help release in Hindi in India?
As of now, only English-language screenings are confirmed. Hindi, Tamil, or Telugu dubs have not been officially announced but may become available—check local listings closer to release.
Is there a post-credits scene in Send Help?
Early reports suggest there may be a brief scene or audio sting after the credits, consistent with Raimi's tradition in films like Evil Dead and Doctor Strange 2.
Conclusion
Send Help represents a significant moment in horror cinema—the return of a master to his roots. Sam Raimi's first R-rated film in 25 years combines everything that made him a genre legend: inventive camera work, practical gore, dark humor, and unforgettable character dynamics.
With Rachel McAdams delivering what critics are calling a career-best performance and Dylan O'Brien playing against type as the villain you love to hate, the film offers a fresh take on survival horror that doubles as sharp workplace satire.
Key Takeaways for Indian Viewers
- Mark your calendar: January 30, 2026, in theaters nationwide
- Adults only: Expect graphic content and an "A" certificate
- Theatrical recommended: Sound design and visual style demand the big screen
- OTT patience: Disney+ Hotstar likely in April-May 2026
- Skip piracy: The horror experience requires quality audio and visuals
For fans of psychological horror, dark comedy, and Sam Raimi's legendary filmmaking style, Send Help is shaping up to be the first must-watch movie event of 2026.
Whether you brave the island in theaters or wait for streaming, one thing is clear: when these two characters are stranded, nobody is coming to help—and that's exactly what makes it terrifying.
Final Verdict
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. We do not support or promote piracy in any form. Please watch movies through official theatrical releases or licensed OTT platforms to support creators and ensure the best viewing experience.
