Mar. 05, 2021|USA|100 Min.|PG
Genre: Horror;Thriller
Description: In the depths of Appalachian country lies an abandoned area with underground coal mines that have been burning for decades. A team of researchers ventures to uncover the origins of the fire, only to discover something far more shocking: they are not alone. This is the premise of *The Devil Below* (also known as *Shookum Hills*), a 2021 film that promises suspense and mystery.
The movie features familiar faces, including Will Patton, a seasoned actor known for his work across various genres, including horror films like *Halloween* (2018 reboot) and *Blood on Her Name*. Although Patton’s screen time is limited, he plays a pivotal role in both flashbacks and the current storyline. Next, Patton is set to appear in *The Forever Purge*, the final installment of *The Purge* franchise, scheduled for release in July 2021.
Joining the cast is Jonathan Sadowski, recognized from *Friday the 13th* (2009) and *Chernobyl Diaries* (2012). The lead female character is portrayed by Alicia Sanz, known for *From Dusk till Dawn: The Series*. While Sanz delivers a solid performance, her Tomb Raider-esque appearance becomes a distraction rather than an asset.
Despite its intriguing setup, *The Devil Below* falls short of leaving a lasting impression. While it offers moments of visual appeal and jump scares, it lacks emotional depth and fails to engage the audience fully. A missed opportunity lies in its inability to craft a compelling narrative, unlike films such as *Rare Exports*, which masterfully blend horror with emotional storytelling.
Overall, *The Devil Below* is a film with potential but ultimately fails to rise above its shortcomings, leaving viewers wanting more.
Cast director: Bradley Parker
Cast actor: Will Patton, Adan Canto, Alicia Sanz, Jonathan Sadowski, Nathan Phillips, William Mark McCullough, Chinaza Uche, Kevin Wayne, Jesse LaTourette, Zach Avery
Original name: The Devil Below