New York police officer Ralph Sarchie investigates a series of crimes. He joins forces with an unconventional priest, schooled in the rites of exorcism, to combat the possessions that are terrorizing their city.
Washed-up true-crime writer Ellison Oswalt finds a box of super 8 home movies that suggest the murder he is currently researching is the work of a serial killer whose work dates back to the 1960s.
After a family is forced to relocate for their son's health, they begin experiencing supernatural behavior in their new home, and uncover a sinister history.
Director:
Peter Cornwell
Stars:
Virginia Madsen,
Martin Donovan,
Elias Koteas
When a younger girl called Emily Rose dies, everyone puts blame on the exorcism which was performed on her by Father Moore prior to her death. The priest is arrested on suspicion of murder. The trial begins with lawyer Erin Bruner representing Moore, but it is not going to be easy, as no one wants to believe what Father Moore says is true.Written by
FilmFanUk
Scott Derrickson had planned on using lots of visual effects to make Emily appear possessed. But after seeing how Jennifer Carpenter could contort her body, he decided he would barely need them. See more »
Goofs
When Erin Bruner meets with Father Moore in jail, the whole cell block is dark and barely lit. And being a lawyer, Erin meets with Father Moore in his jail cell without the presence of guards or police. This is not done for the explicit safety of both the prisoners and those that visit them. See more »
Quotes
Emily Rose:
[In German to her father]
Dolls and kisses and crosses and wishes... You think that can save your little girl?
See more »
Crazy Credits
Opening statement: This film is based on a true story. See more »
Wonderful, wonderful movie. A lesson in film-making. I know a lot of people won't be able to see it for what it is because of the supernatural/horror elements (which are usually a turn-off for film snobs), but the movie is just extremely well-made.
Consider the fact that Linney's character's true conflict is not winning the trial, but a satisfyingly complex internal struggle which I will not name so as not to spoil the movie. Or the plethora of food for thought that the movie offers, regarding existentialist issues of perception vs. objective truth, and social issues of liability and responsibility.
Some very interesting scenes that find ways to express things in subtle and creative ways without spelling them out. And an incredible and ballsy performance by Jennifer Carpenter, which takes Linda Blair's possession to a whole new level. Also, notice how a key dramatic monologue is presented, contrary to what we might expect, with no sentimental music in the background. The cinematography is also great. I was reminded of Dario Argento's vivid colors in Suspiria on more than one occasion.
Although it's not the focus of the film, the movie also offers a few very cool scare moments, and seeing Emily possessed is terrifying.
This is my favorite "underdog" movie of the year so far.
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Wonderful, wonderful movie. A lesson in film-making. I know a lot of people won't be able to see it for what it is because of the supernatural/horror elements (which are usually a turn-off for film snobs), but the movie is just extremely well-made.
Consider the fact that Linney's character's true conflict is not winning the trial, but a satisfyingly complex internal struggle which I will not name so as not to spoil the movie. Or the plethora of food for thought that the movie offers, regarding existentialist issues of perception vs. objective truth, and social issues of liability and responsibility.
Some very interesting scenes that find ways to express things in subtle and creative ways without spelling them out. And an incredible and ballsy performance by Jennifer Carpenter, which takes Linda Blair's possession to a whole new level. Also, notice how a key dramatic monologue is presented, contrary to what we might expect, with no sentimental music in the background. The cinematography is also great. I was reminded of Dario Argento's vivid colors in Suspiria on more than one occasion.
Although it's not the focus of the film, the movie also offers a few very cool scare moments, and seeing Emily possessed is terrifying.
This is my favorite "underdog" movie of the year so far.