Exorcist: The Beginning

Starring: Stellan Skarsgard, Izabella Scorupco, James D'Arcy
Directed by: Renny Harlin
Rating: R
Genre: Horror
Box Office: $
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary:An ex-priest, Mr. Merrin (Stellan Skarsgard) reluctantly travels to Africa to investigate a strange church and a possible connection with Satan. The brush with evil may make him rethink his decision to leave the priesthood and will test the very foundation of his faith.

Review:

Tim: This is much better than the other Exorcist sequels, but it cannot compare to the mind blowing original. When you look at the first film, and then at this one, this latest entry appears soft and silly.

However, aside from failing to compare to The Exorcist, this film os pretty creepy. Never is the film really scary, but it will at least keep you nervous, wondering what will happen next.

Stellan Skarsgard is perfect to play the younger Father Merrin. He has the perfect balance between deep morality and a man who has lost his faith. He plays the tormented ex-priest in remarkable fashion.

The film ultimately relies on too many cheap horror tricks to be of any good. The climactic finale is a sad rip-off of many past horror films. Too little imagination sinks the movie.

I like the placement of this movie in Africa, although I don't believe the film utilized the location or the culture enough. It sure tries to, but doesn't quite achieve success here.

The buried church is pretty frightening to see and the crows inside add to the very creepy atmosphere. All in all, this is a decent but by no means great horror film. Instead, just watch the original again.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 6



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Poltergeist, Exorcist II: The Herectic, The Exorcist III