The Devil’s in the Details: Unpacking the Horror of ‘The Exorcism’

As I sat down to watch ‘The Exorcism’, I couldn’t help but think of the countless horror movies that have come before it. But what sets this film apart is its unique blend of behind-the-scenes drama and supernatural terror. Director Joshua John Miller’s personal connection to the horror genre - his father, Jason Miller, played Father Karras in ‘The Exorcist’ - adds a layer of authenticity to the film’s exploration of the darker side of Hollywood.

The actor’s troubled past adds depth to his portrayal of a washed-up star

The film’s central plot revolves around Anthony Miller (Russell Crowe), a faded star who’s cast as a priest in a remake of a famous horror film. As Miller’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, his daughter Lee (Ryan Simkins) begins to suspect that he’s fallen under demonic influence. But is it just a case of method acting gone wrong, or is something more sinister at play?

The film’s use of a multi-storey house set adds to the sense of unease

One of the standout aspects of ‘The Exorcism’ is its clever use of lighting and set design. The film’s cinematography is reminiscent of recent horror movies, with a focus on dark, muted tones that add to the sense of unease. The set design is equally impressive, with a multi-storey house set that’s used to great effect in key scenes.

The film’s use of practical effects adds to the sense of realism

The cast delivers solid performances across the board, with Russell Crowe bringing a sense of tragedy to his portrayal of Anthony Miller. Sam Worthington shines as a second exorcist, and Chloe Bailey has a memorable moment on set when Anthony is close to meltdown.

The film’s supporting cast adds to the sense of unease

While ‘The Exorcism’ may not be the scariest horror movie out there, it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the darker side of Hollywood. With its clever use of lighting and set design, solid performances, and personal connection to the horror genre, it’s a must-watch for fans of the genre.

‘The Exorcism’ is a film that will leave you questioning what’s real and what’s just a performance.