In its well shot found footage style it is the story of a preacher, Reverend Cotton Marcus, who has lost his faith and feels that he can no longer dupe people into thinking exorcism is the answer to problems that essentially they need a doctor for. He agrees for a film crew to follow him to his last exorcism to show how much of a charade his profession is. Obviously, his last exorcism is a little more unusual than his previous endeavours.
It has a well written script which is helped made believable by the little-known, but accomplished actors. Patrick Fabian who plays Reverend Marcus has been in everything from the original 90210 to Star Trek and CSI but after over 20 years of acting this is considered his break-out moment. And he does himself justice, his lovely laid back mannerisms and soft tone help you warm to his character instantly, this is important as the Reverend has essentially been lying to vulnerable people for the last 30 years.
The gentle, steady pace of the beginning was enjoyable and gave the film good structure and balance. German born director Daniel Stamm did well to use the documentary style camera shots without them seeming laboured or unnatural.
Everything in the film was really wonderful, scary, intense, sad and, most importantly, believable. Right up to the last 15 minutes, it almost becomes a completely different film. It feels as though the producers were not brave enough to go with a more quieter, and perhaps in real-life terms, more disturbing ending.This was a major disappointment or brilliant surprise if you were hoping for more visible horror.
A sequel to the film has been verified and it is said that Ashley Bell, who played her part wonderfully innocent and giggly, will reprise the role of Nell for the second movie. However Stamm will not be directing which maybe a costly move given the direction the franchise may be swaying; into the over-populated corner of your everyday slasher/jumper horror. Well costly to the story, not pocket linings.
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