Final Destination is satisfying schlock. The premise is silly but fun, and the craftsmanship is actually pretty solid, especially for a movie like this. There is some weak acting (namely, Kristen Cloke) and the music is occasionally distracting, but that is mostly forgivable because other techniques are implemented. Specifically, the camerawork is surprisingly engaged: plenty of movement and a variety of shots keep the visuals active. There are moments of abstract sound design that help set an eerie mood. There is even a match cut transition early on that is quite pleasant. Plus, a variety of special effects are used, which is always refreshing (the CGI hasn't aged well but everything else generally works).
Some movies aren't trying to be much more than shallow entertainment and that is okay. Final Destination might not be enlightening or even make much sense, but it does accomplish its goals of excitement and gratuitous kills. For that alone, it is a fair experience. Yet, because Final Destination is competently executed on a technical level, it is more than a one-trick pony. Therefore, even though Final Destination clearly isn't high art, it does land as an amusing piece of pop culture.
Writing: 6/10
Direction: 6/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 5/10
Editing: 7/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 5/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 6/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 6.2/10
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