Genre: Horror, thriller
Despite a gripping opening and an interesting premise, latest horror, The Deliverance, builds up to a mediocre climax that sours the entire movie that has led to weeks of divisive debate online between moviegoers.
A family of five moves into a new home, and while dealing with their already complicated relationships, they notice strange happenings around the house that allude to a spiritual entity moving among them.
Ebony Jackson (Andra Day) is a single mother with anger issues and an alcohol problem.
Her relationship with her three children is strained as a result of her verbal and physical abuse towards them.
Her mother, Alberta (Glenn Close) tries to help where she can, but she also has her own issues to deal with — she is in treatment for her cancer.
Day and Close play a mother and daughter with a strained relationship very well. The acting of all five main actors is good, even when they are ‘possessed’ later in the film.
The elements of horror and suspense are cleverly intertwined with the family dynamics. The director successfully establishes a sense of mystery, with subtle hints and foreshadowing that suggest the film is building towards something substantial.
The cinematography in the first third of the movie is also notable. The visuals are creative, using lighting and camera angles to convey the mood and themes effectively.
The use of colour and shadow adds to the atmosphere. The soundtrack, though not groundbreaking, complements the visuals well, setting the tone for what initially appears to be a thought-provoking piece of cinema.
The audience’s interest is piqued, and the reveal is highly anticipated. Unfortunately, the reveal is disappointing. The film takes an unexpected turn and becomes an incoherent mess that raises more questions than it answers. It basically becomes an exorcism with imagery and storytelling that will offend Christians.
By the time the credits roll, the initial excitement and intrigue have long since faded, replaced by frustration and disappointment.
The film is loosely based on a true story, but to tell that story, a documentary would be better.
It should come with trigger warnings for abuse, demonic possession, racism, strong language, financial difficulties, trauma and addiction.
Horror fans may enjoy this one, but if you’re not into demonic possessions and exorcisms, give this one a miss.
The Deliverance is available for streaming on Netflix.
