Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes Ratings Soar to 92%: Why Critics Are Raving

The horror genre just got a bloody boost with Final Destination: Bloodlines, the sixth installment in the iconic franchise, slashing its way to an impressive 92% on Rotten Tomatoes. This stellar score, based on over 100 reviews as of May 2025, marks the highest critical rating in the series’ 25-year history.

Fans and newcomers alike are buzzing about the film’s inventive kills, emotional depth, and nostalgic nods to its predecessors. But what’s driving these sky-high Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes ratings? Let’s dive into the gore and glory behind this critical darling.

Why Is Final Destination: Bloodlines Scoring So High on Rotten Tomatoes?

The Final Destination series has always been a fan favorite for its Rube Goldberg-style death traps, but critics haven’t always been kind—until now. Bloodlines boasts a Certified Fresh 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, dwarfing the previous franchise high of 63% for Final Destination 5. Critics praise its blend of gruesome creativity, sharp humor, and a surprisingly poignant family drama.

Directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, the film introduces a fresh twist: a college student, Stefani Reyes, battles a generational curse tied to her grandmother’s 1968 premonition. This narrative innovation, paired with crowd-pleasing kills, has elevated the Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes ratings to unprecedented heights.

The film’s emotional core, particularly the late Tony Todd’s final role as William Bludworth, has also struck a chord. Critics call his performance a “poignant sendoff,” adding gravitas to the franchise’s mythology. With a 90% audience score complementing the critics’ love, it’s clear Bloodlines is a hit across the board.

What Are Critics Saying About the Film’s Kills and Humor?

If there’s one thing Final Destination is known for, it’s the jaw-dropping, anxiety-inducing death sequences. Bloodlines delivers some of the franchise’s “best and nastiest kills,” according to Deadline Hollywood Daily.

From lawn tools to an MRI gone wrong, the kills are described as “Buster Keaton-esque” for their physical comedy flair. Critics also applaud the film’s self-aware humor, with The Guardian noting its “gleefully gory treat” vibe that balances unsettling tension with laugh-out-loud moments. These elements have significantly boosted the Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes ratings, making it a standout for both gorehounds and casual viewers.

The film’s ability to play with audience expectations—referencing iconic moments like Final Destination 2’s logging truck—adds a layer of meta fun. Starburst calls it a film that “feels like the first Final Destination that’s seen a Final Destination film,” masterfully baiting and switching savvy fans.

How Does Bloodlines Honor the Franchise’s Legacy?

Nostalgia plays a big role in the Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes ratings. Critics highlight the film’s respectful nods to earlier entries, particularly Final Destination 2, while carving out a fresh identity.

Digital Spy notes that Bloodlines “crucially has the spirit of the series and its own dark heart in the right place.” The inclusion of Tony Todd’s William Bludworth, alongside callbacks to past premonitions, ties the franchise together while expanding its lore.

The film also serves as an accessible entry point for newcomers. Bloody Disgusting praises its standalone appeal, making it welcoming for those unfamiliar with the series’ history. This balance of fan service and fresh storytelling has critics calling it a “respectful resurrection” of a beloved franchise.

Are There Any Criticisms of Final Destination: Bloodlines?

No film is perfect, and even with its stellar Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes ratings, some critics have qualms. Discussing Film points out that the script can feel overly self-referential, bordering on parody, with “Looney Tunes-level kills” that may not land for everyone.

ComicBook.com argues the non-death sequences lack nuance, though Tony Todd’s scenes remain an exception. Some also note the CGI, while effective, doesn’t always match the practical effects of earlier entries.

Despite these critiques, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Only a handful of the 100+ reviews are negative, and the film’s strengths—its kills, humor, and heart—far outweigh its flaws for most critics.

What’s Next for the Final Destination Franchise?

With a $51.7 million opening weekend and projections to become the first Final Destination film to cross $100 million domestically, Bloodlines is a commercial and critical triumph. Its 92% Rotten Tomatoes score and B+ CinemaScore (rare for horror) signal strong audience approval. Critics like Variety suggest the film’s “transfusion of creativity” ensures the franchise will “live to kill again.”

The film’s success could pave the way for more installments, especially given its ability to attract both longtime fans and a new generation. As The Hollywood Reporter puts it, “The Grim Reaper should garner a new generation of fans with this sixth entry.” For now, Bloodlines stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Death’s twisted design.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Final Destination: Bloodlines has defied expectations, earning a 92% on Rotten Tomatoes and proving there’s plenty of life left in this 25-year-old franchise. Whether you’re here for the gory kills, Tony Todd’s emotional farewell, or the clever nods to the past, this film delivers a bloody good time.

Catch it in theaters or on IMAX for the full, anxiety-inducing experience, and join the conversation about why the Final Destination: Bloodlines Rotten Tomatoes ratings are soaring.

Death’s design has never looked this fresh—or this fun.