'The Last Exorcism' Begins Filming Sequel

That didn’t take long. With the moderate success of The Devil Inside and the Paranormal Activity franchise closely becoming the new horror genre trend, it’s no surprise that producer Eli Roth (Hostel) would want to capitalize on the possession film. The PG-13 film The Last Exorcism grossed $68 million on a budget less that $2 million, is set to begin shooting its R-rated sequel next month with a new director, Ed Gass-Donnely (Small Town Murder Songs).

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2011, Where's All The "Horror"?

Will Scream 4 be one of the selected few horror movies released in 2011?

Earlier this month, there was an article posted on Badass Digest that tackled the lack of horror films and I wish to elaborate on the statement that was made conerning this year's poor showing. One has to wonder why movie audiences haven't seen a truly traditional horror movie that has received large media attention or even had a successful box-office presence. I could list all the "horror films" that have been released this year but, they all utilized facets of the horror genre as part of the whole. 

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Russell Crowe, the Baddest Man Alive

Yes, that's right. Actor Russell Crowe is taking the leap from Hollywood bad boy to The Man with the Iron Fist in Wu Tang Clan's RZA's directorial debut. Universal Studios gave the first time director the go ahead last May to the tune of 20 million dollars.

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Movie Review - 'The Last Exorcism'

The Last Exorcism Starring Patrick Fabian and Ashley Bellfont Directed by Daniel Stamm Rated PG13

Aw geez. Well, let me give you the good news before I give you the bad news. The Last Exorcism is a single camera mocumentary about a cynical preacher in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Cotton Marcus, played by Patrick Fabian, is having a camera crew follow him to dispel the myths about demonic inhabitations and the practice of exorcism. Sophisticated, self aware, and very funny, Fabian does a wonderful job with this very cleverly crafted character who believes that possession is merely a self-induced affliction brought on by psychological illness.

The setup is a bit long winded, but is light and entertaining enough to carry the audience along to the Sweetzer farm where we meet Louis, Louis Herthum, and his daughter Nell, Ashley Bell. Louis believes his daughter is possessed, and Cotton supports him entirely with a very convincing act and hilarious theatrical performance intended to cure her of her self-imposed ailment.

It is when the mock exorcism doesn’t work that this film really gains momentum. One thing I have to say for Eli Roth is that he really knows how to make a good, cheap film. This concept is brilliant. As Nell exhibits more and more harrowing signs of possession, the two members of the documentary crew emerge and become integral characters in this truly scary hunt to figure out what is going on with this young girl.

Let me clarify: when I say scary, I mean, this movie will make you jump, and maybe cling to the person next to you at some moments. I’ve been watching horror movies since I was about eight years old, and rarely do I squirm as much as I did during this film. Unfortunately, however, the freak show, including cracking necks, breaking bones, and some impressive acrobatics on the part of Ashley Bell, is a bit short-lived. The film then begins to turn from an inventive horror film to an episode of Law and Order: SVU, but somehow, maintains a solid level of intrigue, that is, for about five minutes.

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Satan's Afoot in This 'Last Exorcism' Clip

I missed my chance to hit the early screening for The Last Exorcism, but that's OK; I think this might be a great midnight movie, as sick as I am of hitting those screenings this summer. But I do it for the kids.

It has been effectively marketed, I think, There's a ridiculous line in the trailers and ads that this exorcist has performed "over 47" exorcisms, as if the real number is just too hard to remember...but we know it's at least 47. And, thanks to the title, we know this is his last, at least number 48. I guess the faux documentary style is an efficient way to tell this story, and it's also cheap. That way, the producers can pay for the devil to show up for a few days as a consultant. He's really helpful, but his rider is unbelievable. A real bitch, that guy. Here's a clip from The Last Exorcism to get you going, courtesy of Bloody Disgusting...

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