The Exorcism of God (2022): A Dark, Disturbing Dive into Faith, Possession, and Guilt
Sometimes, the demons we face aren’t just in the shadows—they’re within us.
In the world of possession horror, the exorcism subgenre is a well-trodden path, with films like The Exorcist (1973) and The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005) setting a high bar. The Exorcism of God (2022), however, takes a bold and controversial turn, combining traditional elements of demonic horror with a unique twist that explores the boundaries of faith, guilt, and the supernatural.
A Sinister Plot, Darker Themes
At its core, The Exorcism of God is a story of Father Peter, a priest who becomes possessed while performing an exorcism. The possession leads him to commit a grave sin, something so terrible it stains his soul, leading to a desperate struggle between his faith, the church, and his own tormented conscience. Years later, Father Peter finds himself once again confronting the dark forces that haunt him—both external and internal.
The plot draws upon themes of guilt, redemption, and the power of faith. But instead of focusing solely on the supernatural, it asks a deeper question: Can a man of faith truly be forgiven for the sins he’s committed when the very nature of his past actions has tainted his soul forever?
A New Take on the Classic Exorcism Tale
What sets The Exorcism of God apart from other exorcism films is its focus on the internal struggle of its protagonist, Father Peter. In many possession movies, the demon is the primary antagonist. Here, however, the demon is a manifestation of Father Peter’s guilt and fear, which makes the horror feel both external and deeply personal.
As the film progresses, the audience is forced to question whether the horrors Father Peter faces are truly the work of a demonic force, or if they are a result of his own psychological unraveling. The supernatural is blended with psychological horror in such a way that you’re never sure if you’re watching a priest battling a demon—or a man battling his own soul.
A Strong Lead Performance
Father Peter, portrayed by Will Beinbrink, delivers a haunting performance that anchors the film’s emotional depth. His portrayal of a man weighed down by the burden of guilt, caught between his role as a servant of God and the horrors he’s inflicted upon himself, is compelling and humanizing. The internal conflict he faces, trying to reconcile his faith with his dark past, makes the horror feel more personal.
Beinbrink’s ability to balance terror and vulnerability is crucial to the film’s success. While the demon’s appearances are terrifying and filled with grotesque visuals, it’s his emotional struggle that truly anchors the audience’s connection to the story.
A Controversial, Yet Effective Approach
One of the most controversial aspects of The Exorcism of God is the way it tackles the theme of sexual assault, guilt, and redemption. The film’s backstory regarding Father Peter’s initial possession centers around an act that cannot be undone, a sin that looms over him, leading to disturbing moral questions about forgiveness, penance, and the true meaning of faith. It’s a theme that might alienate some viewers, but for others, it’s an intense examination of the limits of grace and redemption.
While it may not be the kind of film that sits easily with all viewers, it’s clear that The Exorcism of God doesn’t aim to just scare—it seeks to disturb and provoke thought about the darker aspects of human nature and the spiritual journey.
The Visuals: Gruesome and Haunting
As with most possession films, The Exorcism of God is not for the faint of heart. The visual effects are grotesque and disturbing, capturing the terrifying transformation of both the demonic entity and Father Peter’s physical and psychological breakdown. The possession scenes are intense, drenched in gore and supernatural violence, making full use of its R-rating to deliver the shocking imagery and visceral horror fans of the genre expect.
The set design also plays a crucial role, with eerie, claustrophobic environments that heighten the sense of dread. Whether it’s the dark, ominous church where Father Peter confronts his demons or the more intimate moments in his personal life, the atmosphere is thick with tension and unease.
Why You Should Watch It
If you’re a fan of possession horror and looking for something with more emotional depth than your standard exorcism flick, The Exorcism of God is a must-watch. The film offers a fresh take on a familiar genre by blending supernatural terror with a deep dive into personal guilt and redemption.
The psychological undercurrent of the film adds layers of complexity, making it more than just a tale of good versus evil. It’s about the battle within, and the notion that sometimes, the most terrifying monsters are the ones we create ourselves.
