Review of Lee Cronin’s The Mummy: A Feast of Gore and Dullness

Director Lee Cronin weaves his signature elements of eerie children and striking visuals into “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy,” resulting in a film that brings mixed feelings. The moments of graphic imagery are undoubtedly impressive, but they tend to emerge from a storyline that, at times, feels restrictive.

What’s Lee Cronin’s The Mummy About?

Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

Cronin’s adaptation presents a fresh narrative around mummies, distinct from previous interpretations, be it the classic 1932 film or the more modern renditions. Instead, it unfolds a poignant tale centered on a grieving family. Charlie and Larissa Cannon, portrayed by Jack Reynor and Laia Costa, once lived in Cairo due to Charlie’s journalism career. Tragically, their daughter Katie (Emily Mitchell) went missing, abducted by a mysterious woman near their home.

Eight years later, they’ve relocated to Albuquerque, yet the shadow of their loss still haunts them. They maintain Katie’s room in all its childhood splendor, unable to move forward or take vacations for fear of history repeating itself with their other children.

    

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    Yet, a beacon of hope shines through when Katie, now depicted by Natalie Grace, returns alive—discovered within an ancient sarcophagus. It’s clear she has faced much during her absence; her physical state raises concerns, but her family’s love drives them to prioritize her safety and healing. Even as peculiar behaviors surface, their overwhelming joy at her return clouds their judgment, a dilemma that unfolds throughout the lengthy runtime of 135 minutes. 
While the grieving process does provide context for their choices, their continued ignorance becomes almost comical, though Cronin does skillfully express their guilt and desire for normalcy amidst turmoil. 
    

Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
    "Lee Cronin's The Mummy" is a tale that, despite its supposed reimagining, follows familiar patterns. While it does effectively utilize unsettling child motifs, evoking imagery reminiscent of other noteworthy horror films, it could benefit from deeper exploration. 
The scenes showcasing the physical trauma Katie endures are undeniably visceral, and Grace portrays her character with a chilling nuance. However, even the more unsettling moments often conclude with a reminder of concern that dissipates quickly, leaving a sense of anticipation unfulfilled. 
As certain scenes unfold—each teasing a deeper narrative—the film often diverts back to a sense of calmness, leaving viewers yearning for more intensity. The detective subplot revolving around Detective Zaki (May Calamawy) offers an intriguing angle that makes one wonder about the neglected opportunities for suspense and depth in the overall narrative.
Ultimately, while "Lee Cronin's The Mummy" offers visual excitement and gore that appeal to many, it may feel like a collection of elements borrowed from stronger works, rather than a compelling new chapter in the horror genre. Sometimes, certain tales, much like the stories held within ancient tombs, are perhaps meant to remain undisturbed.
    

"Lee Cronin's The Mummy" opens in theaters on April 17.