[6.50/10] The Possession (2012)

The Possession (2012)

Brief review: While Bornedal’s latest film is not even half as compelling and terrifying as "The Exorcist", compared to some of the more recent movies of this sub-genre, "The Possession" is not that weak at all. Script-wise, it barely stands out form all the other exorcism flicks, as it has far too many familiar elements and tired plot formulas, but manages to make up for that in other areas. The fact that the film is based on a true story makes it fairly disturbing, especially if you take it seriously. However, some gruesomely creepy images and a couple of suspenseful moments aside, The Possession" barely has the 'scare factor'. Even though it’s set in present day, interestingly enough, it has that specific, 70’s-inspired, ominous feel about it. From the washed-out color palette to the bleak, intentionally simplistic cinematography, eerie sound effects and oddly scratchy music score, everything about "The Possession" screams 'old school'. Ole Bornedal’s direction is quite simple in style, yet sophisticated execution-wise, and while the use of CGI is a bit too obvious at times, overall the special effects are convincingly-executed, way above average, and everything but cheesy. Jeffrey Dean Morgan gives one of his best performances, but the true star of the film remains the promising young actress Natasha Calis as Em, who alternates between innocence and evilness so effortlessly, it’s fascinating.

Overall summary: Well-crafted, solidly-acted, visually-atmospheric and often sinister, if far from frightening, there’s nothing particularly wrong with Ole Bornedal’s exorcism flick, "The Possession", but there’s nothing that special, groundbreaking, or very original about it either.

Read (and please comment on) the extended version of my "The Possession" review, written solely for White Cat Magazine HERE.