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FilmDebate

Wednesday 4 April 2012

[Review] The Devil Inside - 23rd March 2012


 - Poor [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

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Release Date: 16th March 2012
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Director: William Brent Bell
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Writers: William Brent Bell - Matthew Peterman
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Cast: Fernanda Andrade - Simon Quarterman - Evan Helmuth - Ionut Grama 


Review

The Devil Inside' continues the boom of films shot in the 'amateur' style that has proven successful over recent years, and while films like these continue to attract audiences, particularly in the horror genre, this film fails to impress.


Exorcism, possession and controversy with religion has always proven to be a popular and interesting subject, so it is no surprise that 'The Devil Inside', focused totally on exorcism, has become the next installment in this relatively modern film style. 

The storyline follows a daughter making a documentary on exorcism, whilst investigating the case of her own mother, who murdered three people during her own exorcism in the late 1980's. 

It is the narrative of the film that poses its first problem; it lacks substance. It is made in a manner that exploits shock scenes, and these are undoubtedly the focus of the film. The plot sounds interesting when promoted in a few simple sentences, however, one quickly becomes aware that the weak storyline is there only as a vehicle to lead into the different horror scenes designed to shock and disturb the viewer - yet another film that has forgotten the purpose of a strong interesting narrative in place of stylistic elements.

In terms of special effects, sound mixing and make-up, the film is actually quite adept. The various scenes of exorcisms throughout the film do not deny the audience realism - as you are watching, you do not find yourself questioning it's authenticity, even though you know you are watching a fabrication. However, this is true of most horror films made in modern cinema. It is simply a fact that audiences have a very high expectation of realism, and 'The Devil Inside' is not unique in any way in this sense. 

The main problem with 'The Devil Inside' is, therefore two- fold; the first is its unrealistic storyline. Unless you are an avid fan or firm believer of exorcisms and daemonic culture, the film is just too unbelievable in its narrative to shock or frighten.  

Secondly, the construction of the film is poor. The manner in which cameras have been used throughout is disjointed, uncoordinated and sloppy. You find yourself bombarded by strange methods of editing and camera work that ultimately grades the films continuity as weak. 

'The Devil Inside' - a horror film that will unfortunately not stand the test of time. Weak in substance, performance and quality.

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