by Christian Grullon, Contributing Writer
The Exorcism starts off with an instantly compelling premise: demons lurking in a horror movie about an exorcism. Horror films often tap into myths stemming from ancient fears. Russell Croweplays Anthony Miller, an actor and recovering addict who is thrown into the role of a priest. The film is spine-chilling, rekindling exorcism and modern twists, and the narrative alone kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.
Crowe’s portrayal of a conflicted and vulnerable protagonist is captivating and haunting. His facial expressions when discussing his backstory are sympathetic.
One of the most notable aspects of the film is the setting and cinematography. The Exorcism has a masterful sense of foreboding and unease, using dimly lit scenes and sound design to create tension. Its visual effects work well with the overall narrative of the story, enhancing the supernatural elements without relying too heavily on CGI or cheap jump scares. The film’s aesthetic contributes significantly to immersing the viewers in the paranormal elements.
Additionally, the film’s pacing is expertly crafted, keeping viewers engaged in the buildup of suspense. The tension never goes away; every scene had my heart beating. Thanks to the tension, the film sets up the climatic finale of the promised scares. The Exorcism effectively plays on psychological horror, delving into the inner demons of its characters and the uncertainty behind what lies in the supernatural world.
Along with the horror elements, the film also dives into redemption, resilience, and faith amidst hard trials. It delves into the harsh realities of addiction and trauma. Both have a profound effect on individuals and how they find themselves. These elements add emotional depth to the characters, making them relatable to the audience.
The chemistry between the characters is authentic, drawing the audience deeper into their experiences. Each character brings a unique presence to the screen, heightening the overall sense of terror and desperation.
Overall, The Exorcism is a compelling and well-executed horror film. The cast is very committed to their characters and their experiences throughout every scene. The movie draws all its strength from the captivating performances, meticulous attention to detail, and immersive detail in visual effects and settings. Plus, the movie masterfully balances psychological depth with supernatural suspense and tension. Crowe is committed to his character, though he does look weary at times. The movie manages to be scary when it needs to be, leading to the well-crafted climatic sequence in the finale.
The Exorcism is compelling and well-executed horror filmmaking.
Rating: Loved It
The Exorcism is currently available on VOD
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