No Docile Piglet: The Exorcism of Emily Rose Review

I would be lying if I didn’t say I kept comparing and contrasting this film with the film adaptation of The Exorcist. However, with due thought, this film stood out on its own, and given the fact it was a retelling of a documented case of a failed exorcism, adds a layer more of depth and introspection into the secular world and the religious world.

           

 I didn’t know what to think of this film during the first 30 minutes of it. Initially, I found the overall film to be riddled with cliché’s and imagery that would scare the hell out of any other viewer. However, deep down, there was heart to this tale. I found myself sympathizing with Erin Bruner and her plight. She wasn’t a strong believer, I would even say she lied about her spiritual leanings (which she got called out for). Bruner struggle with her career and the supernatural did cause her to slip into her cups at several points, which is understandable when she realized she was being awoken at 3AM regularly. Father Moore’s character was certainly frustrating at times, namely when he insisted he testify. I found that he had some subtle intensity about him. He understood the ramifications and possibilities of the trial, but he was prepared to accept the reality. However, he does have his preachy moments.

         

   If I could gripe about one thing it was how the supernatural was presented in this film. The image of the bleeding stained glass didn’t do it for me. Sure, there was scary moments, but they were overshadowed by cliché. It felt cheap seeing those sacred images desecrated by unseen forces. I could have done without the Shakespeare reference to storms. I found the actual exorcism scene to be bland. The set up was there, the execution was something to be desired. True the supernatural was not the focus, I would have liked to understand more about it with an agnostic perspective. And perhaps that’s where the fear factor of this movie comes into play. The supernatural is in the background and perhaps even breaks down the walls between the material and spiritual realms in certain spots. Bruner’s and Cartwright’s initial reluctance to acknowledge that aspect of life adds to that fear factor.

             

There were of course several positive aspects. The plot didn’t feel like it was two hours and I didn’t feel cheated with my time. The major positive aspect of this film was the emotional impact of it. Each character was given their fair share of time and credit. Fr. Moore was particularly easy to read but powerful in his simplicity. His character was handled very well. This film stands apart from in predecessor and yet pays homage to it, with the use of old tongues. One way this stood out was its setting: taking place after the death of Emily Rose, the modern mentality set in and was changed. Being set some 40 years after its predecessor, this film differentiates itself by putting forth a philosophical aspect, which is a major drawing point to the film. This film went a bit beyond good versus evil, it touched upon differing beliefs and what we do with the gift of life.

             

The Exorcism of Emily Rose hit on several points without turning into a documentary or some other film. There was a balance and realism to this film I can’t seem to ignore. How would I react if someone I knew showed the signs of possession?  I don’t know. I will likely have mixed feelings about this film for quite some time. Perhaps another screening of it will solidify my opinion.