Quick Read
- Dylan O’Brien stars in the upcoming survival thriller ‘Send Help.’
- He plays Bradley Preston, an egotistical boss, opposite Rachel McAdams’ character, Linda Liddle.
- The film, directed by Sam Raimi, is an R-rated story about plane crash survivors stranded on an island.
- A new clip shows O’Brien’s character struggling while McAdams’ character adapts to island life.
- ‘Send Help’ is scheduled for theatrical release on January 30, 2026.
LOS ANGELES (Azat TV) – Actor Dylan O’Brien is set to star in the highly anticipated survival thriller Send Help, which is scheduled for theatrical release on January 30, 2026. O’Brien takes on the role of Bradley Preston, a cruel and egotistical boss, opposite Rachel McAdams, who portrays Linda Liddle, his overlooked employee. The film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sam Raimi, follows the duo as they become the sole survivors of a plane crash and find themselves stranded on a deserted island, forced to confront their strained relationship amidst a fight for survival.
A newly released exclusive clip from the film offers a glimpse into the contrasting survival instincts of the two main characters. In the scene, McAdams’ character, Linda, quickly adapts to the harsh island environment, demonstrating resourcefulness by building a shelter, foraging for food, and even crafting a makeshift skincare routine. O’Brien’s Bradley, however, struggles significantly, battling heavy rain, failing at basic tasks, and resorting to desperate measures like consuming an insect.
Dylan O’Brien’s Role as Bradley Preston
O’Brien’s portrayal of Bradley Preston marks a departure for the actor, showcasing a character far removed from the heroic or relatable figures he has often played. Bradley is introduced as an antagonist to Linda, embodying a self-centered and demanding personality. His inability to cope with the primal challenges of island life, as depicted in the clip, sets up a dynamic where his previous authority is stripped away, forcing a potential transformation or a deeper descent into desperation. This complex character arc is expected to provide O’Brien with a significant acting challenge, allowing him to explore a different facet of his craft.
Sam Raimi’s Return to R-Rated Cinema
Send Help also marks a notable return for director Sam Raimi, as it is his first R-rated film since The Gift in 2000. Raimi, known for his distinctive blend of horror, action, and dark humor, brings his signature style to this survival narrative. His involvement suggests a film that will not shy away from intense situations and potentially graphic depictions of the struggle for survival, aligning with the R-rating. The decision to cast O’Brien and McAdams in these contrasting roles under Raimi’s direction hints at a film that will explore both the physical and psychological tolls of being stranded.
Anticipation for the Theatrical Release
The film’s imminent release has generated considerable buzz, particularly given the strong lead cast and Raimi’s directorial involvement. Viewers are eager to see how the dynamic between O’Brien’s struggling boss and McAdams’ capable employee evolves as they navigate the perils of their isolated environment. The survival genre often provides a fertile ground for character development, and Send Help appears poised to delve into the complexities of human nature when faced with extreme circumstances. The contrast highlighted in the promotional clip serves to heighten anticipation for the full story, promising both dramatic tension and unexpected character turns.
The film’s focus on a character stripped of his usual societal advantages, forcing him to confront basic survival, offers Dylan O’Brien a compelling opportunity to demonstrate range beyond his established roles, potentially redefining audience perceptions of his dramatic capabilities.