The Exorcist: Believer breathes new life into a legendary horror franchise that has been marred by subpar sequels and missteps. Set 50 years after the original, this film takes us on a chilling journey as photographer Victor Fielding, portrayed by the talented Leslie Odom Jr., grapples with the mysterious disappearance of his daughter Angela and her friend, played by Lidya Jewett and Olivia O’Neill.
What sets “Believer” apart from its predecessors is its focus on emotional depth and character development. Odom Jr.’s portrayal of a concerned father and his chemistry with Jewett create some genuinely moving moments. Additionally, the return of Ellen Burstyn, adds a layer of nostalgia to the film.
Director David Gordon Green, known for his work on the Halloween reboot trilogy, wisely opts for atmosphere and slow-burning tension over excessive jump scares. While it may not reach the petrifying heights of the original, “Believer” offers disturbing and eerie sequences that will still send shivers down your spine.
Honorable mentions have to go to Lidya Jewett and Olivia O’Neill, who do a standout job as the young possessed girls. They made the story that much more believable and I feel with this sort of genre, you need to believe it to feel the fear.
Without revealing too much, the plot holds a few satisfying surprises that keep viewers engaged. This film is a refreshing departure from the tired clichés of exorcism movies, offering something more emotionally resonant. In a genre plagued by lackluster sequels, The Exorcist: Believer is a welcome addition that both honors the original classic and brings a fresh perspective to the franchise.
The Exorcist: Believer is in cinemas now.
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