An underrated horror gem

The Exorcism of Emily Rose is a distinctively unique horror movie. The film's storyline is loosely based on the true story of a German woman named Anneliese Michel: in 1976, young Michel died following a series of unsuccessful exorcisms when it was believed that she was possessed by demonic forces. The film is essentially an "Americanised" version of these events that unfolded in the 1970s. Anneliese Michel has been replaced with the character of Emily Rose (Carpenter), and the events have been transplanted into a rural American setting.

To most audiences, the title probably implies a link to the 1970s horror classic The Exorcist. However, The Exorcism of Emily Rose does not follow the path of a mainstream horror movie. Instead of scenes showcasing gore-fests and geysers of blood that lacks suspense, the filmmakers have alternatively produced a drama/horror hybrid. The film mixes courtroom drama with a supernatural thriller. The audience is offered intelligent and insightful discussion that present scientific evidence in relation to religious phenomena.

The Rose family lives in an isolated farmhouse in pastoral America. The opening scene establishes the situation: 19-year-old teenage girl Emily Rose has died and her family are in mourning. Those investigating the death of Emily ultimately arrest the Rose family's priest, Father Moore (Wilkinson), for negligent homicide as a result of performing an unsuccessful exorcism. Father Moore begins denying any deals that fly in his direction, stating that he wishes to reveal the true story of Emily Rose. Agnostic lawyer Erin Bruner (Linney) is hired to defend Father Moore. As the trial against Father Moore commences, the story of Emily Rose is conveyed through flashback. While doctors insist Emily's condition appears like a severe case of psychosis or epilepsy, other views are uncovered as further testimonies are presented. The evidence revealed could prove that Emily was in fact possessed by several satanic demons.

The greatest aspect of The Exorcism of Emily Rose is that it never seems to jam a single perspective down the throat of the audience. Instead the film offers compelling arguments for numerous possibilities. Was Emily actually possessed or is it a bunch of religious superstition? This question is never explicitly addressed...allowing an audience to form their own interpretations.

The Exorcism of Emily Rose is a competently crafted supernatural horror film. The film doesn't conform to the typical formula for a horror movie. The formula is instead disregarded: this is courtroom drama melded with intense, suspenseful horror sequences. The occasionally cheesy melodramatic courtroom drama is balanced with several scenes that will send chills down your spine. The scene depicting the exorcism is particularly haunting and terrifying. When one considers that this is based on a true story, things become far scarier. Whether you believe in religion or not, it's virtually impossible not to find this film scary. It's simply one of the most effective chillers in recent memory. At times it scared the living daylights out of me. Director Scott Derrickson proves competent at the helm. The use of his sets and locations make things far more atmospheric and effectual. The music further reinforces the chilling tone.

Laura Linney handles her role capably. Cue the smart outfit and the typical lawyer persona, and it's almost like Linney was aiming for an Oscar nomination. The script provides her with a suitable character. Tom Wilkinson is remarkable as Father Moore. He gives his religious rambling far more credibility with his facial expressions and passion sizzling in his eyes. Personally I've never taken a liking for the actor, but now my respect has elevated enormously. Young Jennifer Carpenter steals the show as the young Emily Rose. She's convincing, deep and unforgettable.

Overall, The Exorcism of Emily Rose is criminally underrated. While genre aficionados may not find the drama to their liking, I found the film to be original, engrossing and entertaining. With plenty of suspense and a solid script, this movie is recommended viewing.

8.3/10