Film Review – The Exorcist: Believer
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The world of cinema has seen many sequels, prequels, and reboots, but few manage to capture the essence of their predecessors while also offering something new to the audience. “The Exorcist: Believer,” available from 6th September 2023 in South Africa, does just that. It’s a film that pays homage to the timeless charm of supernatural horror while also carving its own niche in the vast film world of this genre.
Directed by the talented David Gordon Green and written by the duo of Peter Sattler and Green, “The Exorcist: Believer” is not just another sequel. It’s a continuation of a story that began in 1973 with the classic horror film “The Exorcist.” The return of the iconic character Chris MacNeil, brought to life once again by Ellen Burstyn, offers a sense of familiarity and nostalgia to those who have been fans of the series for decades.
The story centres around Victor Fielding, portrayed with depth and emotion by Leslie Odom Jr. Victor is a man haunted by personal tragedy, having lost his wife in the devastating Haitian earthquake. He is now faced with the monumental challenge of saving his daughter, Angela, from an unseen and malevolent force. Angela’s character, played by the promising Lidya Jewett, becomes the focal point of the film as her behaviour starts to shift in ways that are both mysterious and terrifying.
The journey of Victor, as he seeks answers and solutions, brings him to Chris MacNeil. Their interactions provide a rich backdrop against which the film’s themes of belief, faith, and scepticism play out. The tension between Victor’s doubts and Chris’s steadfast belief in the supernatural offers viewers a chance to reflect on their own beliefs and the nature of faith itself.
One of the standout elements of “The Exorcist: Believer” is its portrayal of exorcism. The scenes are crafted with such finesse that they leave viewers on the edge of their seats, feeling every moment of suspense and tension. The special effects although of high quality, could have been slightly enhanced and made more dramatic to bring out the feel of the theme of the movie.
Beyond the supernatural, the film also delves into themes of family, love, and loss. It paints a picture of the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their child, and the bonds that tie families together even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
However, no film is without its critiques. While “The Exorcist: Believer” is undoubtedly a well-crafted piece of cinema, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its predecessor in terms of sheer intensity. Some moments in the film might appear a bit far-fetched, especially when considering the gravity of the situation involving two young children. And while the film does have its moments of surprise, those seeking the raw, unfiltered horror of the original might find this iteration a touch subdued.
“The Exorcist: Believer” is a harmonious blend of old and new. It respects its roots while also offering a fresh perspective. For fans of the franchise and newcomers alike, this film is a journey worth taking. For new fans to the franchise, welcome! For those die-hard fans of this franchise… See Chris MacNeil one more time, and revel in nostalgia from the classic to the sequel.
Bear in mind, that these films span half a century between their releases. Simply considering this remarkable time gap, it’s deserving of a viewing, paying tribute to the classics that added thrilling chills to many of our formative years.
