“The Exorcism,” directed by Joshua John Miller and written by M.A. Fortin, is a bold and meta take on the possession genre, challenging the conventions of horror filmmaking. Set against the backdrop of a movie-within-a-movie, the film follows washed-up actor Anthony, played by the towering force that is Russell Crowe, as he grapples with his personal demons while portraying a priest in a troubled production.
Miller’s direction shines in capturing the self-reflexive nature of the story, especially evident in the elegant opening sequence where the intricacies of a cursed film are unveiled. The narrative cleverly navigates the blurred lines between reality and fiction, echoing themes seen in Miller and Fortin’s previous meta work, “The Final Girls.”
Adam Goldberg delivers a standout performance as the misogynistic director, Peter, adding layers to the narrative with his portrayal of Hollywood power dynamics. Meanwhile, David Hyde Pierce charms as Father Conor, offering a beacon of light amidst the chaos unfolding on set.
While the film falters in its final act with cheap thrills and a rushed conclusion, Crowe’s raw and magnetic performance anchors the story, elevating it beyond its narrative shortcomings. His portrayal of Anthony captures a sense of personal turmoil and vulnerability that adds depth to the character.
“The Exorcism” is a thought-provoking exploration of the dark side of filmmaking and the human psyche, inviting audiences to question the boundaries between reality and fantasy. While it may not fully deliver on its ambitious premise, the film’s unique approach and strong performances make it a compelling watch.
Watch The Exorcism (2024) Trailer
Catch “The Exorcism” in theaters starting Friday, June 21, 2024, for a cinematic experience that delves into the inner workings of both horror cinema and the human condition.
