By: Morgan Watters
Staff-Writer/Artist
Halloween. The time of year where everyone is just a bit more aware of the paranormal. Ghouls, ghasts and gremlins are not a peculiar sight in October. In fact, many adorn the lawn or decorate your houses. But what happens when they take hold inside your body? This week, I will be reviewing two movies about these uninvited guests.
Evil Dead Rise
“Evil Dead Rise” was a long anticipated film for “Evil Dead” film series fans. This film was released April 21 and will haunt many of us for some time to come. While many possessions in films involve children, this film takes an unexpected turn.
Ellie, a mother of three, becomes possessed and is trapped in an apartment with her three children, as well as her sister. Can a mother’s love prevail against evil? If you watch the film, you will surely find out. However, I will warn you: this film is not for those with a weak stomach. Blood and gore are the primary shock factor of this film, rather than jump scares. The plot is intentionally corny at times, and humor is utilized in a rather gruesome manner. This was a horror movie with a good plot and the ability to make me gag, so I give it a 9/10.
The Pope’s Exorcist
It’s not often that we get to see possessions and exorcisms in film from the perspective of a priest. “The Pope’s Exorcist” provides us with this unique opportunity. This film was released April 14 and follows Father Gabriele Amorth, who is sent to help a boy who has been demonically possessed.
This plot runs much deeper than possessions and delves into the secrets of the Vatican – what are they hiding, and how is the boy involved? Father Amorth is played by Russel Crowe, which is a rather unusual role for him. However, I found it to be a refreshing change of pace for the actor. I will say the plot of this film was very predictable, despite the many twists. Due to this, the film was not as scary or shock-inducing as it could have been. I will give this film a 5/10. Do not let this review discourage you from watching; it is still enjoyable, and if you have Netflix, it is currently streaming.
