THE POPE’S EXORCIST (2023)

 

Directed By: Julius Avery 

Written By: Michael Petroni and Evan Spiliotopoulos  

Story By: Jeff Katz, R. Dean McCreary and Chester Hastings  Based on the books “AN EXORCIST TELLS HIS STORY” And “AN EXORCIST: MORE STORIES” By: Father Gabriele Amorth  Cinematography: Khalid Mohtaseb 

Editor: Matt Evans

Cast: Russell Crowe, Daniel Zovatto, Franco Nero, Alex Essoe, Pete DeSouza-Feighoney, Laurel Marsden, Cornell John, Bianca Bardowle, Ryan O’Grady 

Inspired by the actual files of Father Gabriele Amorth, Chief Exorcist of the Vatican, 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.

What helps keep the film entertaining at the very least is Russell Crowe is certainly having fun throughout with his over-the-top performance. It’s like imagine if Anthony Hopkins's version of Van Helsing in BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA had gotten his own modern-day spin-off movie 

The film saves the best for last as it includes action, violence, nudity in other words all the naughty stuff. Even though the film has plenty of racy scenes means more to shock and show the possession. 

The last act of this film is so off the wall and overrated yet fun. That you wish the whole movie had been like that. 

As it stands out because before that the movie had been so basic and unoriginal. Something you have seen before. though it might make an interesting first horror film for those being introduced to the horror genre. 

It’s not that good but what you hope for, leaving room for a franchise.

Considering the director Julien Avery who has directed the crazy and entertaining OVERLORD 

who seems to be when he lets loose. After trying so hard to keep it simple and build up the tension. So with this film, he feels like he is holding back on purpose until the end.

The film is a strange mix as it seems to want to contain itself and seem realistic by trying to stick to the facts. Though there are plenty of places throughout especially the end. When it feels purely Hollywood-pumped-up storytelling. 

The film feels like a weekend box office movie placeholder more designed to bring in a quick buck and have a top spot for the opening weekend and be a go-to in the following weeks for people. who needs to buy a ticket or see something else other than the # 1 sold-out movie. So this is kind of like a B-movie. As it is more content than memorable cinema

Grade: C-