Anthony Mackie‘s 2024 action thriller, Elevation, which initially premiered in theaters earlier this year, has emerged as an unexpected sleeper hit on Prime Video. Although the film failed to attract audiences at the box office, it currently ranks number four on Prime Video’s Top 10 Movies, drawing renewed interest and excitement from viewers despite its early 2025 streaming debut.
The popularity of Elevation on Prime Video places it among other acclaimed titles such as Oppenheimer, A Working Man, and Anyone But You, highlighting its unexpected rise despite a rough theatrical start. This demonstrates how streaming platforms can offer a second chance for movies that underperform in cinemas.
A Unique and Intense Post-Apocalyptic Storyline
Elevation’s appeal stems from its gripping plot set in a dystopian world ravaged by monstrous creatures called Reapers. The story centers on a single father, portrayed by Mackie, who embarks on a perilous mission to secure vital medical supplies for his sick son. Alongside two other survivors, the trio leaves the relative safety of their high-altitude Rocky Mountain home to cross below 8,000 feet—known as The Line—where the deadly Reapers roam.
Fans of suspenseful survival dramas such as A Quiet Place and HBO’s The Last of Us have found the film’s premise captivating, combining intense action and emotional stakes. Its blend of thriller and action elements keeps the audience engaged, delivering both adrenaline and heartfelt moments throughout the journey.
Challenges and Factors Behind Elevation’s Box Office Failure
Despite garnering viewer praise on streaming platforms, Elevation struggled commercially in theaters. Released against competition including Heretic and Weekend in Taipei, it opened in only 1,416 U.S. theaters, earning a modest $1.2 million during its opening weekend. With a total worldwide gross of $3.6 million against an $18 million budget, the film was considered a financial failure in cinemas.
The film received mixed critic reviews, holding a 55% score on Rotten Tomatoes, though it earned a much higher 80% audience score, signaling strong viewer approval despite critical reception. This split suggests the film resonated more with the general audience than with critics.
Elevation’s trajectory is not unique; films that disappoint at the box office sometimes thrive on streaming. For example, 2017’s The Snowman performed poorly in theaters yet soared to the top Netflix spot years later. Factors like ineffective marketing, inappropriate release timing, or limited theatrical exposure may contribute to such outcomes, giving movies like Elevation a chance to find their audience online.
Anthony Mackie Reflects on the Filming Experience in Colorado
In a candid conversation with The Denver Post, Anthony Mackie shared insights about shooting Elevation in Boulder, Colorado. Describing the isolated town’s narrow focus on community values, Mackie explained how the environment influenced his portrayal of the film’s protagonist.
“I’ll tell you what I learned in Colorado. I thought there would be good fishing, beautiful countryside, all of that. And I was right. The fly fishing was amazing, I got a lot of brookies (trout), but I didn’t go hunting, which I was mad about. Next time, I’m coming back hard.” —Anthony Mackie, actor
The natural surroundings and sense of seclusion helped Mackie immerse himself fully in the role, enhancing the film’s authentic atmosphere of survival and isolation amid danger.
Cast and Where to Watch
Elevation stars Anthony Mackie alongside Morena Baccarin, Maddie Hasson, and Danny Boyd Jr. The film combines their performances to create a tense and engaging action thriller that has captured streaming audiences.
Viewers can watch Elevation now exclusively on Prime Video, where its growing popularity continues to demonstrate the shifting dynamics between theatrical releases and streaming success in today’s entertainment landscape.
Streaming Success Signals Future Potential for Action Thrillers
Elevation’s journey from box office disappointment to streaming favorite highlights how emerging platforms can revive films and connect them with appreciative audiences. For Anthony Mackie and the film’s creative team, this newfound acclaim could encourage similar projects that blend intense action with compelling human stories.
As Elevation continues to climb Prime Video’s rankings, its performance may influence how studios approach distribution strategies, balancing theatrical releases with strategic streaming launches to maximize a film’s reach and impact.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Anthony Mackie done with Marvel?
A. Although there has been some recent controversy, the Marvel director clarified that there are no changes in the decision about the new Captain America. Anthony Mackie will continue as the next leader of the Avengers.
Q. Are Chris Evans and Anthony Mackie friends?
A. Since Evans played Steve Rogers for a long time, it would make sense if he felt torn about handing over Captain America’s role. However, he seemed genuinely happy for Mackie, his friend and coworker, who was advancing to a bigger part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
