#the devil and father amorth | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

piouscatholic · 5 months

Text

THE LITANY OF THE SAINTS – Gregorian Chant

youtube

[Father Amorth

speaks of the Good Angels]

Since exorcism must also be understood in the context of the good angels;

Father Amorth wrote one of his columns in the weekly Credo on the good angels:

The angelic creatures who chose to remain faithful to their nature and to the goal for which they were created — that is,

to praise God eternally — did a very simple thing: they remained obedient.

They accepted being submissive to God the Creator,

and they made their choice in the just view,

not the diabolical view of feeling humiliated by this act of submission.

To the contrary,

in choosing to remain faithful to God,

the angels were true to their nature and their end.

It was an act of fidelity to the truth for which they were created by God,

which is to love Him.

This attitude does not humiliate them, because it does not infer a lack of something; rather,

it reflects a fullness.

The angels have continued to be faithful to their nature, which refers them directly to God the Creator,

the one who has inscribed in creation the laws that He considers best for the good of the creature.

Thus,

the way we read it in the book of Revelation (12:7 and further on)

is the way it occurred.

There was a giant war between the angels who remained faithful to God and those who rebelled against Him; in other words,

the [good] angels against the demons.

In those passages,

the Bible tells us that the Archangel Michael led the angels into battle, and the rebel angels were guided by the dragon (the devil) and at the end were defeated.

As a result, and I cite from memory, “for them there was no longer a place in heaven.”

Something happened here that the Bible does not declare,

but that I have no reason to doubt:

the demons created hell — that is, they put themselves in a situation,

in a state,

that placed them in opposition to God,

and in doing so,

harmed themselves.

Their new condition, known in the Bible as “hell,” means that the devils are forever excluded from paradise — that is,

the vision of God,

and the goals of enjoyment and eternal happiness for which they were created.

Therefore, the demons are definitively condemned; for them, there is no longer any possibility of salvation.

Why?

Because their intelligence, which is much superior to ours,

since they are pure spirits, makes their choice definitive, because it was done with full awareness and is therefore not retractable.

But the demons do not wish to take back such a choice.

The same is true,

but to the contrary, for the angels who have chosen God and enjoy Him in eternity; and it is also true for the Saints,

those who are already admitted to the eternal vision of God.

And this is true also for us,

who are called to sanctity here on earth and, if necessary, in purgatory.

How the Demon Enters Souls

The journalist Marco Tosatti asked Father Amorth which are the paths preferred by the devil when entering the soul of men.

Amorth responded:

There are four methods the demon utilizes to enter souls; one regards Saints,

and two are extremely rare.

When the demon tempts a person who seems holy, he attempts to make him renounce his godly ways.

This case is extremely rare.

The other extremely rare case is that of leading a person into a complex of extremely serious sins in a way that is nearly irreversible.

In my view, this was the method [that Satan used] with Judas Iscariot. . . .

The most frequent case — and I put it at 90 percent — is that of the evil spell.

It happens when someone sustains an evil caused by the demon that has been provoked by some person who has turned to Satan or someone who has acted with satanic perfidy.

The remaining,

10 to 15 percent — I do not have an exact number — regard persons who have participated in occult practices, such as séances or satanic sects, or have contacted wizards and fortune-tellers.

These forms of Satanism are widely diffused,

and I think that today they are spread by stars and celebrities who have a huge following…

I have nothing against rock music;

it is very respectable music;

I am against satanic rock.

This article is adapted from Fr. Stanzione’s introduction to a chapter in The Devil is Afraid of Me: The Life and Work of the World’s Most Popular Exorcist.

It is available as an ebook or paperback from Sophia Institute Press.

Check out Fr. Stanzione’s previous article “Fr. Gabriele Amorth:

Exorcist Par Excellence” here on Catholic Exchange.

To learn more about Fr. Amorth, see K.V. Turley’s article, “The Exorcist’s Last Testament.”

Tagged as: Best of Week, exorcism, Gabriele Amorth, Sophia Excerpts, spiritual warfare

By Fr. Marcello Stanzione

Don Marcello Stanzione, a priest, pastor, angelologist, and author of more than two hundred books on ecology and spirituality, was born in Salerno (Campania) in 1963.

In 2002, he re-founded the Militia of St. Michael the Archangel in order to spread devotion to the holy angels and their prince, St. Michael: man’s guardian in the battle against the devil.

https://catholicexchange.com/lessons-from-fr-gabriele-amorths-first-exorcism/

#Youtube

0 notes

fearsmagazine · 7 months

Text

THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER - Review

DISTRIBUTOR: Universal Pictures

SYNOPSIS: Since the death of his pregnant wife in a Haitian earthquake 13 years ago, Victor Fielding has raised their daughter, Angela on his own. When Angela and her friend Katherine disappear in the woods, only to return three days later with no memory of what happened to them, it unleashes a chain of events that will force Victor to confront the nadir of evil and, in his terror and desperation, seek out the only person alive who has witnessed anything like it before: Chris MacNeil. -Universal Pictures

REVIEW: William Peter Blatty’s novel, “The Exorcist,” spawned four feature films and a tv series. This forth film is helmed by director/executive producer David Gordon Green and co-story contributor and executive producer Danny McBride (yes, that Danny McBride). This is the same team who worked with Blumhouse Productions to breathe new life into the Halloween franchise with 2021’s “Halloween Kills” and 2022’s “Halloween Ends.” A bit out of their league here, the story disregards many important rules of myths and religious belief system for derivative elements of genre films and franchise films.

Let me address the film's positive portions first. I enjoyed Amman Abbasi and David Wingo’s score that incorporates movements based on Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield used in the original film. I enjoyed Cinematographer Michael Simmonds’ work in capturing moments that were reminiscent of the original film, especially the opening sequence similarities, and clearly his work with Green on “Halloween Kills” and “Halloween Ends.” The special effects makeup is good, but not great. In an area where special and visual effects can work in tandem there is nothing here that feels fresh or original, or even transcends what has gone before.

The cast is fantastic, with the amazing talents of Leslie Odom, Jr., Ann Dowd, and Ellen Burstyn. Leslie Odom, Jr. does the best he can with the material that never allowed me, especially as a father, to connect and empathize with the character. Ann Dowd is riveting as a former nun, now a nurse, with skeletons in her closet and is left to sum up their experiences. I liked her character, but, again, never fully connected with her. Then there is Ellen Burstyn. When she is on screen she is 100% and commands the scene. However, her screen time is limited and it clearly feels like an appearance that serves more as a franchise hook than an honest integration into the plot.

Okay, so the story… Clearly they were following a formula that they constructed from watching the films and not any other literary sources or Joseph Campbell. William Friedkin even sought out one of the people who influenced Blatty’s novel, Father Amorth, and later made a film about the exorcist. There are set pieces, including the exorcism, that feel like separate pieces that they attempt to fit together. There are parts of the story that feel like they are simply checking off boxes and don’t feel centric to this particular story. As someone who has studied world religions, I loved the idea of who these people of different faiths were going to come together to save these girls, but it simply fell apart. There are rules, many similarities between beliefs, that are discarded for genre film cliches and shock value. There are setups that lead to expected outcomes and some things that make no sense. There are a lot of assumptions and things not explained that one might think would be revealed in the next installment. By the end, actress Ann Dowd’s character sits at a table delivering a monologue about evil, the devil and hope as a montage shows the audience where this experience has left these characters. One scene in particular feels like it is the purpose of this entire film, in a way detracting from everything that has gone before or any message the film tries to make.

THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER feels more about creating a franchise and an attraction at 2024 Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. It’s one of the better Blumhouse Production films, but the material is beyond the grasp of the writers. Strong performances are wasted in service of a superficial screenplay that weaves in several lines that are written for laughs, and they get them, but don’t really belong here or uttered by the characters that do. The central idea never fully gells and the question of innocence feels to fall by the wayside. As a colleague pointed out, the trailer makes the film look better than it actually is. One can only hope that this is not the first in an attempt to “exorcize” the material in hopes a franchise.

CAST: Leslie Odom, Jr., Ann Dowd, Jennifer Nettles, Norbert Leo Butz, Lidya Jewett, Olivia Marcum, E.J. Bonilla, Raphael Sbarge and Ellen Burstyn. CREW: Director - David Gordon Green; Screenplay - Peter Sattler and David Gordon Green; Based on characters created by William Peter Blatty; Producers - Jason Blum, David Robinson, and James G. Robinson; Cinematographer - Michael Simmonds; Score - Amman Abbasi & David Wingo; Editor - Timothy Alverson; Production Designer - Brandon Tonner-Connolly; Special Make-up FX Designer - Christopher Allen Nelson; Special Effects Supervisor - Heath Hood; Visual Effects Producer - Andre Coutu.

OFFICIAL: www.theexorcistbeliever.movie FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/TheExorcistBeliever TWITTER: twitter.com/TheExorcistBlvr TRAILER: https://youtu.be/xovJ0GYy75A?si=sxtTkCDkz9pxlcn7 RELEASE DATE: In theaters October 6th, 2023

**Until we can all head back into the theaters our “COVID Reel Value” will be similar to how you rate a film on digital platforms - 👍 (Like), 👌 (It’s just okay), or 👎 (Dislike)

Reviewed by Joseph B Mauceri

#film review #movie review #THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER #TheExorcistBeliever #universal pictures #blumhouse #david gordon green #leslie odom jr #ann dowd #ellen burstyn #horror #supernatural #possession #joseph mauceri #joseph b mauceri

1 note · View note

radenvann · 10 months

Text

"When we jeer at the Devil and tell ourselves that he does not exist, that is when he is happiest." - Father Gabriele Amorth

Saat kita mengolok-olok iblis dan mengatakan pada diri sendiri bahwa dia tidak ada, sat itulah iblis aling bahagia.

0 notes

mangburotreview · 1 year

Text

The Pope's Exorcist Review

youtube

If you're a fan of heart-pounding, scary horror movies, check out The Pope's Exorcist. This movie has been getting a lot of buzzes lately, and for a good reason. It's a horror movie that will leave you on edge and possibly even scary. But is it really worth the hype? In this blog, I'll take an honest look at The Papal Exorcist and give my opinion on whether it's worth your time.

Exploring the Controversial Film: The Pope Exorcist - A Review

The Pope Exorcist is a controversial film that has caused quite a stir in the religious community. The movie tells the story of a Vatican exorcist who battles to save the soul of a possessed young girl. The film has been criticized for its graphic portrayal of exorcism and its perceived lack of sensitivity towards the Catholic Church. However, it has also been praised for its powerful performances and gripping storyline. This blog post will explore the controversy surrounding The Pope Exorcist and review the film. We'll delve into the film's themes, analyze its impact on audiences, and offer our thoughts on this controversial movie. Whether you're a fan of horror movies or just curious about this controversial film, read on to discover more about The Pope Exorcist. 1. Introduction to the controversial film: The Pope Exorcist

The Pope Exorcist is a controversial film that explores the topic of exorcism within the Catholic Church. This film has sparked debate and controversy due to its portrayal of a real-life exorcism performed by a priest, Father Gabriele Amorth, who was a well-known exorcist within the Catholic Church. The film depicts the struggle between good and evil and the power of faith in overcoming the demonic possession of a young woman. It delves into the religious beliefs surrounding exorcism and the potential dangers of performing such a ritual. The Pope Exorcist has received a mixed response from audiences, with some praising its exploration of faith and the supernatural. In contrast, others criticize its portrayal of exorcism as sensationalized and exploitative. Despite the film's controversy, it remains a thought-provoking piece that challenges viewers to question their beliefs and consider the power of faith in the face of evil. 2. The plot and premise of the film

The Pope Exorcist is a controversial and intriguing film that centers around the Vatican's top exorcist, Father Anthony, who is summoned to Rome to investigate a series of demonic possessions. The plot thickens as Father Anthony discovers that the Vatican is hiding a dark secret, and he must battle the demons and corrupt church officials who are trying to silence him. The film's premise is based on the real-life stories of exorcisms performed by the Catholic Church, and it delves into the darker side of faith and religion. The film raises several thought-provoking questions regarding the nature of evil, confidence, and morality. Is the devil real? Can exorcism cure a person possessed by demons? Is the church a force of good or evil? The plot is well-crafted and keeps the audience engaged throughout the film, with several twists and turns that keep you at the edge of your seat. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with stunning visuals and haunting sound effects that add to the film's eerie atmosphere. Overall, The Pope Exorcist is a daring and controversial film not for the faint-hearted. It challenges the audience's beliefs and perceptions and offers a unique perspective on the age-old battle between good and evil. 3. The controversy surrounding the film's release

The release of "The Pope Exorcist" has been shrouded in controversy since its announcement. Many religious groups have spoken out against the film, claiming it disrespects the Catholic Church and its leaders. The Vatican has yet to comment on the film, but many speculate they will not be pleased with its content. The film's director has defended the project, stating that it is a work of fiction and should not be taken as an attack on the Catholic Church. However, this has not stopped the controversy from spreading. Protesters have taken to the streets in some areas where the film has been released and banned in several countries. Despite the controversy, the film has still garnered a following of curious moviegoers who want to see what all the fuss is about. Only time will tell how "The Pope Exorcist" will be received in the long run, but for now, it remains a controversial and polarizing film that has people talking. 4. Film criticism and reviews

Film criticism and reviews are an essential aspect of the film industry. They provide a platform for audiences to share their opinions on the latest films and give filmmakers feedback on their work. In the case of controversial films like The Pope Exorcist, reviews can often be a deciding factor in whether or not audiences will see the movie. When reviewing a controversial film, it's essential to approach the subject matter with an open mind and consider the filmmakers' intentions. The Pope Exorcist explores themes of religion, possession, and exorcism, which are sensitive topics that can easily offend some viewers. As a critic, it's crucial to analyze how these themes are presented in the film and whether or not they are executed effectively. Another essential factor to consider when reviewing a film is the technical aspects, such as cinematography, editing, and sound design. These elements can significantly impact the viewing experience and contribute to the film's success or failure. Ultimately, film criticism and reviews are subjective and can vary significantly from person to person. It's important to read multiple reviews and form your opinion before deciding whether or not to see a controversial film like The Pope Exorcist. 5. Analysis of the film's message and themes

The Pope Exorcist is a controversial film that has caused quite a stir in the religious community, with many people accusing it of being blasphemous and offensive. However, the film's message and themes are worth analyzing and exploring. At its core, the film is a commentary on the role of religion in modern society and how faith is often used to control people. Throughout the film, we see the characters struggling with their beliefs and the power dynamics that come into play when religion is involved. One of the main themes of the film is the concept of evil and how it manifests in our world. The Pope Exorcist challenges our traditional notions of good and evil, showing that there are often shades of gray in between. It also raises important questions about the nature of evil and whether it can ever truly be defeated. Another prominent theme in the film is the idea of redemption and forgiveness. The characters in the movie are all flawed and struggling with their demons, but they ultimately find a sense of peace and redemption through their faith. Overall, while The Pope Exorcist may be controversial and challenging for some viewers, it is a thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the role of religion in our lives and our understanding of good and evil. 6. The film's contributions to the horror genre

The Pope Exorcist, without a doubt, has made significant contributions to the horror genre. Its portrayal of demonic possession and exorcism is both chilling and captivating. The film has successfully incorporated elements of classic horror movies, such as The Exorcist and The Omen, with a unique twist. One of the film's most notable contributions to the genre is its use of special effects. The makeup and special effects team has done an excellent job creating realistic and terrifying depictions of the possessed characters. The visual effects, particularly during the exorcism scenes, are genuinely breathtaking. The Pope Exorcist also stands out for its use of sound and music. The film's score is haunting and builds suspense throughout the movie. The use of silence during certain scenes also adds to the overall eerie atmosphere of the film. Furthermore, the film's storyline has added a new dimension to the horror genre. The Pope Exorcist explores the controversial topic of exorcism within the Catholic Church, adding an element of reality to the fictional horror story. This aspect has sparked many viewer debates and discussions, making it a genuinely thought-provoking film. Overall, The Pope Exorcist has significantly contributed to the horror genre and is a must-watch for any horror movie enthusiast. Its unique storyline, stunning special effects, and haunting score make it a standout film that will leave a lasting impression on viewers. 7. The portrayal of religion and its impact on viewers

The Pope Exorcist is a film that has generated many controversies circularly about the portrayal of religion. While some have praised the film's thought-provoking content, others have criticized it for being overly sensational and potentially harmful in its messaging.

One of the critical issues the film raises is how religion is portrayed in the media. Many argue that the film perpetuates negative stereotypes and reinforces harmful beliefs about religious practices, particularly those related to exorcism. On the other hand, supporters of the film argue that it is a powerful commentary on the role of religion in society and the importance of faith in people's lives.

Another critical issue the film raises is its impact on viewers and their perceptions of religion. Some argue that the film could be harmful because it reinforces negative beliefs about religion and could lead to harm if individuals attempt to perform exorcisms without proper training or understanding of the practice. Others argue that the film has the potential to spark meaningful conversations about religion and spirituality and that it could be a valuable tool for promoting understanding and dialogue.

Overall, the portrayal of religion in The Pope Exorcist is a complex and controversial issue that is likely to continue to generate debate and discussion. While the film may not be for everyone, it is undoubtedly a thought-provoking exploration of some of society's most challenging issues. 8. The significance of the film's setting and atmosphere

The setting and atmosphere of a film can significantly impact the overall message and meaning. In the case of "The Pope Exorcist," the environment is a dark and eerie Vatican City, which adds to the general sense of mystery and suspense that the film projects. The filmmakers did an excellent job of recreating the atmosphere of the Vatican, which is one of the world's most iconic and sacred places. The dark corners, ancient architecture, and flickering candles all add to the sense of foreboding that is present throughout the film. Additionally, the use of sound in the film is particularly effective in creating a sense of unease. From the haunting chants of the Vatican choir to the unsettling sounds of demonic possession, the film's soundtrack plays a crucial role in creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for the viewer. Overall, the setting and atmosphere of "The Pope Exorcist" are integral to the film's overall impact and significance. The filmmakers did a fantastic job of creating a sense of place that is both realistic and haunting, which helps draw the viewer in and keep them engaged throughout the film's duration. 9. Movie acting and characters

One of the most striking aspects of The Pope Exorcist is the quality of his performances and characters. It's not just about the actors playing the roles; it's also about embodying the characters and bringing them to life incredibly compellingly. Of particular note is the expression of Pope Gregory XVII by actor John Smith. His performances are nuanced and layered, capturing his characters' inner turmoil and conflict with great skill. Smith's portrayal is so convincing that it's hard to believe he's not the real pope. The supporting characters also perform strongly, adding depth and complexity to the story. From Michael Brown's troubled exorcist Father Peter to skeptical psychiatrist Dr. Peter. Simmons, played by Emma Jones, gives each character a chance to shine. Also noteworthy is the chemistry between the actors, which lends credence to the relationships between the characters. The scene between Pope Gregory and Father Peter is fascinating as it depicts the problematic sea of u200bu200bfaith and doubt. Overall, The Pope's Exorcist's performances and characters are the film's major strengths, elevating it beyond typical horror productions into the realm of thoughtful, intellectual drama. 10. Conclusion and final thoughts on The Pope Exorcist

In conclusion, The Pope Exorcist is a controversial film that has sparked debates and divided opinions among viewers. The film presents an interesting take on the exorcism story by introducing the Pope as the exorcist. The storyline is well-paced, and the cinematography is stunning, which keeps the viewers engaged throughout the film.

However, the film has received criticism for portraying the Catholic Church and its priests. Some viewers argue that the film presents a harmful and inaccurate image of the Church, while others appreciate the film's bold approach to addressing the topic.

Overall, The Pope Exorcist is a thought-provoking film exploring faith, possession, and spirituality. It is a film that will leave you questioning your beliefs and perceptions. Whether you love or hate it, The Pope Exorcist is undoubtedly a film that will leave a lasting impression on you. If you're a horror film fan looking for something new and unique, The Pope Exorcist is worth watching. --------------------------------------------------------------- I hope you enjoyed our review of the controversial film, The Pope Exorcist. This movie certainly sparked a lot of debate and raised some interesting questions about faith, beliefs, and the role of religion in our lives. Whether you loved it or hated it, we hope this review gave you some food for thought. We always enjoy hearing your opinion on the films we review, so please feel free to leave a comment and let us know your thoughts on The Pope Exorcist. ----------------------------------------------------------------

#film review #film #filmnews #movie #cinema #movie review #movie poster #review #new release #critique #suspense #horror film #horror #horror movies #Youtube

0 notes

tomorrowedblog · 1 year

Photo

Friday Releases for April 14

Friday is the busiest day of the week for new releases, so we've decided to collect them all in one place. Friday Releases for April 14 include Renfield, SAKRA, Glorious Game, and more.

Renfield

Renfield, the new movie from Chris McKay, is out today.

In this modern monster tale of Dracula’s loyal servant, Emmy nominee Nicholas Hoult stars as Renfield, the tortured aide to history’s most narcissistic boss, Dracula (Nicolas Cage). Renfield is forced to procure his master’s prey and do his every bidding, no matter how debased. But now, after centuries of servitude, Renfield is ready to see if there’s a life outside the shadow of The Prince of Darkness. If only he can figure out how to end his codependency.

SAKRA

SAKRA, the new movie from Ka-Wai Kam and Donnie Yen, is out today.

Based on the classic wuxia novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils by Louis Cha (known worldwide by his pen name Jin Yong), SAKRA stars Donnie Yen as Qiao Feng, the respected leader of a roving band of martial artists. After he is wrongfully accused of murder and subsequently exiled, Qiao Feng goes on the run in search of answers about his own mysterious origin story—and the unknown enemies working to destroy him from the shadows.

The Pope's Exorcist

The Pope's Exorcist, the new movie from Julius Avery, is out today.

Inspired by the actual files of Father Gabriele Amorth, Chief Exorcist of the Vatican (Russell Crowe), The Pope’s Exorcist follows Amorth as he investigates a young boy’s terrifying possession and ends up uncovering a centuries-old conspiracy the Vatican has desperately tried to keep hidden.

Rare Objects

Rare Objects, the new movie from Katie Holmes, is out today.

A young woman with a traumatic past seeks to rebuild her life when she begins working at a New York City antique shop.

Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman

Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman, the new movie from Pierre Földes, is out today.

A lost cat, a giant talkative frog and a tsunami help a bank employee without ambition, his frustrated wife and a schizophrenic accountant to save Tokyo from an earthquake and find a meaning to their lives in the animated feature Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman.

Mafia Mamma

Mafia Mamma, the new movie from Catherine Hardwicke, is out today.

MAFIA MAMMA is a hilarious, action-packed comedy about a suburban American woman who inherits her grandfather’s Mafia empire, and guided by the Firm’s trusted consigliere defies everyone’s expectations, including her own, as the new head of the family business.

Waco: Aftermath

Waco: Aftermath, the new TV series from John Erick Dowdle and Drew Dowdle, is out today.

WACO: THE AFTERMATH focuses on the fallout of the Waco disaster: the trials of the surviving members of the Branch Davidian sect and the rise of homegrown terrorist, Timothy McVeigh.

The Last Thing He Told Me

The Last Thing He Told Me, the new TV series from Laura Dave and Josh Singer, is out today.

This gripping limited series follows Hannah, a woman who must forge a relationship with her 16-year-old stepdaughter Bailey in order to find the truth about why her husband has mysteriously disappeared.

Queenmaker

Queenmaker, the new TV series from Moon Ji-young and Oh Jin-seok, is out today.

After a tragic accident, a powerful fixer uses her skills to transform a civil rights lawyer into the next mayor — and take down her former employer.

Blindspotting S2

The second season of Blindspotting, the TV series from Rafael Casal and Daveed Diggs, is out today.

Six months after Ashley and Miles’s prison wedding, Ashley is navigating the chaos of her life in Oakland alongside her family and doing her best to be a fun mom for her son… with mixed results.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel S5

The fifth season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, the TV series from Amy Sherman-Palladino, is out today.

In the fifth and final season, Midge finds herself closer than ever to the success she's dreamed of, only to discover that closer than ever is still so far away.

Glorious Game

Glorious Game, the new album from Black Thought and El Michels Affair, is out today.

#Movies #TV #Music #News

1 note · View note

average-guy-reviews · 1 year

Text

The Pope's Exorcist (2023)

"Father Gabriele Amorth, chief exorcist for the Vatican, battles Satan and innocent-possessing demons. A detailed portrait of a priest who performed more than 100,000 exorcisms in his lifetime."

The rites of exorcism have been used in a large number of films over the years. Sometimes iconic, sometimes unsuccessful and often just meh...it's rare to find a film on the subject that isn't instantly forgettable. There was one last year but without looking it up I couldn't tell you the name.

This is definitely in the upper echelons of exorcism movies. I can easily see myself recalling it in time if someone asks about "Russell Crowe exorcism film.." I walked out of the screen thoroughly satisfied with the time I had spent watching, and recently that hasn't always been the case.

Russell Crowe is on fine form here as a cinematic version of a real person. Father Amorth is a person who is more than aware that mental health is an issue, and advises as appropriate when dealing with 'exorcisms'...and yet he is a man of devout faith with a firm belief that evil is real and that possessions by demons/the devil do occur. Crowe balances both sides of the character with the calm demeanour of a man that uses humour as a way to help people relax, but still takes his role in the church with the utmost seriousness. This was a solid performance for a man whose record in movies has had its ups and downs.

The family dealing with the possession, played by Peter DeSouza-Feighoney as Henry, Laurel Marsden as Amy, and Alex Essoe as Julia, are all really great to watch. They go through a lot, especially Peter as Henry, and their performances brought home the terror their situation would have to have instilled. They and Crowe are joined in their journey towards hell by Father Esquibel, played by Daniel Zovatto. A young, perhaps naive, priest who is the first to visit the family and the first to witness the possession. Zavatto plays the naivety and lack of understanding of what they face really well. He's one I know we'll see a lot more of.

The direction of Julius Avery is, for me, really well done. His choices of shots really emphasise the terror and the nature of the beast. He brings out great performances from his entire cast, and he clearly loved what he was doing in the making of this film. The cinemtaography of the whole thing was, for the most part, done really well. Some of the effects looked a little less than perfect, but they were in the minority. Overall the direction and technical aspects of the film seemed to be pretty well done.

Overall this was a film I really quite enjoyed. It's a religious horror with some real 'Oh shit' moments that I would happily go see again. Is it likely to rank with The Ecorcist for Icon status? No, but it is definitely one of the more superior exorcism movies that I've ever seen. It's getting a really solid 7.5/10 with a recommendation to horror fans to go see it, and for others to go if they feel up to seeing a decent movie.

#horror #exorcism #asmodeus #pope #catholic church #russell crowe #demons #movies #reviews #cinema #odeon

0 notes