"The Exorcism," directed by Joshua John Miller, is set to haunt cinemas from June 21st. The film stars an impressive cast, including Russell Crowe, Ryan Simpkins, Sam Worthington, Chloe Bailey, Adam Goldberg, and David Hyde Pierce. This meta-horror flick follows Anthony Miller (Crowe), a troubled actor who begins to unravel while filming a supernatural horror movie. His estranged daughter (Simpkins) questions whether his behavior is due to his past addictions or if something more sinister is at play.
Filmed in late 2019 but not released until May 2024 in Spain, the film has finally reached broader audiences. Despite its delayed release, "The Exorcism" offers a cinematic experience that is both foreboding and ominous, though not necessarily frightening. The movie meanders through its plot, interspersed with a few startling jump scares, keeping viewers on edge but never fully terrified.
The cinematography is a standout, with clean and cinematic shots that heighten the unsettling grey tones throughout the film. The haunting imagery contributes to the overall eerie atmosphere. However, the story appears to suffer from editing issues, resulting in certain character arcs feeling underdeveloped. This is particularly evident with some characters who seem superfluous to the plot.
Despite its slow burn, the film rushes to a finale that feels somewhat lackluster. The makeup department’s heavy use of eye shadow to depict tiredness is overdone, making characters appear almost raccoon-like. The film's ride is superior to its ending, with reveals and payoffs that could have been more impactful.
Russell Crowe's performance as Anthony Miller is intriguing, with his portrayal of a man on the brink adding depth to the film. However, his resemblance to Tim Allen’s Santa Claus can be a distraction. David Hyde Pierce’s role is another point of contention. Known for his iconic role as Dr. Niles Crane, it’s challenging to take him seriously in a horror context. Adam Goldberg’s portrayal of a Kubrick-like director adds a layer of realism, taunting his lead actors throughout production. Samantha Mathis also makes an appearance, though it’s brief enough to be easily missed.
"The Exorcism" is ultimately a mixed bag. While it doesn't break new ground, it’s an enjoyable watch, particularly if you’re looking for something to pass the time on a Sunday afternoon. The film’s title and promotional material may lead to confusion with other films, but it stands alone with its narrative, albeit a pretentious one.
In conclusion, "The Exorcism" is a film best enjoyed in theaters, where its cinematic qualities can be fully appreciated. Despite its flaws, Russell Crowe’s performance and the film’s unsettling atmosphere make it worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to be a groundbreaking entry in the horror genre.
Jessie Hobson