The Final Destination

...and that has to be the daftest sequel title ever. This is FD4, with only the definite article distinguishing it from the first in the series.

And that's the only distinguished thing about this film. Once again, a bunch of gorgeous young folk escape a disaster because one of them has a premonition. But can they get on with their lives, greeting each new day with greater appreciation?

See Final Destinations 1-3.

Yup, once again, Death has a design. Said design usually involves something being spilled, knocked over or spontaneously combusting, sending pretty young people to hell in a handbasket. Or a sieve.

For this is grisly stuff, though I'm not going to describe any of the accidents as they're the closest thing to original moments in the film. Oh, all right then... the igniting incident is a race track tragedy and one scene proves I'm right never to enter a car wash. I'm not going to single out any of the actors, as this is strictly 'wind 'em up and watch 'em go' thespianship. The only person I've actually heard of here is TV stalwart Mykelti (this week's spelling - the Midnight Caller alumnus just can't make his mind up) Williamson, who should know better.

There are a few decent gags along the way, and the odd in-joke that repays attention, but otherwise this is a disappointing entry in the series (of course, I don't believe this is the end. We've not had Finally, Finaller or Finalest Destination yet). It's just not good enough to make the same film over and over again, as we're well into diminishing returns by now. We need something new, perhaps a shot of mythology, maybe more information about Tony Todd's character from the first two films, Bludworth, who seemed to have inside information about Death's dealings. This time we have a street bum who seems to be significant, but, well, I dunno...

And when I say something new, I don't mean a few 3D blood spatters and sparks. I'd have happily foregone them for the pleasure of not being forced to wear headache-inducing glasses.

The Final Destination? If only.