As movie enthusiasts, we often find ourselves drawn to films that push boundaries and offer fresh perspectives. “The Exorcism,” set to hit theaters this Friday, does just that. Directed by Joshua Miller, who co-wrote the script with M.A. Fortin, this film brings a unique twist to the exorcism genre by emphasizing LGBTQ themes and featuring a powerful female-led exorcism.
Russell Crowe stars as Anthony Miller, an actor portraying an exorcist who begins to show signs of possession himself. The film cleverly blurs the lines between reality and performance, with Crowe delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with his demons both on and off screen. Ryan Simpkins, who came out in 2020 and uses they/she pronouns, plays Anthony's estranged daughter, Lee. Her character's queerness and strength resonate deeply, especially in a patriarchal industry.
Lee's relationship with another crew member, portrayed by Chloe Bailey, is central to the narrative. Together, these queer women perform the exorcism, flipping the traditional script where a male priest exorcises a female victim. Fortin's decision to have women exorcize a man underscores a powerful reversal of roles and challenges long-held conventions in horror.
David Hyde Pierce adds depth to the film as Father Conor, a skeptical Catholic adviser who questions the reality of Anthony's possession. Pierce, who did not consult a priest for his role, drew on his childhood memories of Episcopal priests to bring authenticity to his character. Despite some of his scenes being cut, Pierce hopes for an extended version that will showcase his full storyline.
Joshua Miller, a former child actor and son of Jason Miller (known for his role in “The Exorcist”), injects personal experience and a tribute to his late mother into the film. This emotional layer adds to the movie's richness, making it more than just a horror flick.
“The Exorcism” combines traditional horror elements with contemporary themes, creating a film that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The cast's dedication, particularly Simpkins' powerful performance and Crowe's complex portrayal, ensures that this film will stand out. As you watch, you'll find yourself captivated by the exorcism scene, brought to life by stellar special effects and intense performances.
Mark your calendars for this Friday, and prepare to experience a horror film that challenges norms and delivers a fresh, inclusive narrative. “The Exorcism” is set to redefine how we view exorcism tales, making it a must-see for any horror aficionado.
