The Pope’s Exorcist

2023 Directed by Julius Avery

Horror Marathon Day 7 Film 11

Russell Crowe plays an exorcist- and while the Italian mannerisms and vespa are fun for the characterization I don't see much going for the actual plot of the film. Part of the problem lies within trying to create a powerful force in a demon- but also in being able to triumph over it. Unfortunately the demonic powers don’t seem to have much beyond the take over and do bad things motivation. It's just that in this Exorcist tale there's a lot of buildup exorcise a demon, but it mostly seems pretty prone to whatever limitations a vampire has to a sanctified cross and a few words of Latin.

The final act especially goes full battle priest with hellfire and dazzled visuals, but it all falls flat when it's obvious the stupid demon will simply be dispelled without any particular sacrifice. No faith is ever really put to the test- and it feels more like a superhero- complete with an intiative to take over other unholy sites around the world for sequels. Maybe the next one will go full "Blade" and have the exorcist throwing holy bathwater bombs.