Lee Cronin’s The Mummy (2026) Spoiler Free Review
Reimagining one of horror’s most iconic monsters is never an easy task, but Lee Cronin takes a bold and surprisingly effective swing with The Mummy (2026). Known for Evil Dead Rise (2023), Cronin moves away from the traditional ancient Egyptian mythology and instead grounds the horror in something far more unsettling: a demonic possession. This version of the Mummy isn’t a resurrected pharaoh, it’s a lost child returning home with a dark force ready to destroy everything.
The young daughter of a journalist disappears into the desert without a trace. Eight years later, the broken family is shocked when she is returned to them, as what should be a joyful reunion turns into a living nightmare.
Film synopsis
The film follows a fractured family forced to confront the impossible when their daughter, missing for eight years, suddenly reappears. What should be an emotional reunion quickly spirals into something far more sinister with a strong premise that blends supernatural horror with emotional trauma, and for the most part, it works. The story feels fresh enough to stand on its own while still echoing themes of grief, guilt, and denial that horror fans have come to appreciate in more modern entries of the genre.
One of the film’s biggest strengths is its commitment to practical effects. Much like Evil Dead Rise (2023), Cronin leans heavily into physical horror, and the result is genuinely unsettling. The makeup and special effects are not just impressive, they’re downright disgusting in the best way possible. There are moments that will make even die hard horror fans squirm, proving that Cronin understands how to balance shock value with visual storytelling. The SFX makeup applied to Katie successfully redefines what a “mummy” can look like in a contemporary horror setting.
Visually, the film carries a similar DNA to Evil Dead Rise, especially in its use of confined spaces and oppressive atmosphere. This stylistic consistency helps build tension, though it occasionally makes the film feel a bit too familiar. Still, the cinematography and sound design work together effectively, creating an immersive experience that keeps you on edge.
That said, the film isn’t without its flaws. The pacing, particularly in the second act, tends to drag. While the story remains engaging, there are moments where it feels like it lingers longer than necessary, slightly disrupting the overall momentum. A tighter runtime could have elevated the film from good to great. Fortunately, the third act brings everything back on track with a satisfying and intense payoff that makes the slower moments easier to forgive.
Another highlight is the film’s ending, which avoids falling into predictable horror tropes. Instead of relying on the usual “sacrifice saves the day” formula, it takes a more grounded and consequential approach that feels earned within the narrative. Performances across the board are decent, even if not particularly standout. The cast does a good job carrying the emotional weight of the story, making the family dynamic believable enough to anchor the more supernatural elements.
Overall, The Mummy (2026) is a surprisingly effective reinvention that proves there’s still room for innovation within classic horror monsters. It may not be perfect, but it’s a bold, grotesque, and refreshing take that’s well worth watching, especially for fans looking for something darker and more visceral.
Lee Cronin’s The Mummy is now available in theaters.