Review of “The Crucifixion” (2017): A Chilling but Predictable Horror Thriller
“The Crucifixion,” directed by Xavier Gens and released in 2017, is a supernatural horror film that attempts to intertwine investigative journalism with themes of faith and demonic possession. Inspired by true events, the film stars Sophie Cookson, Corneliu Ulici, and Brittany Ashworth. While the film aims to deliver a gripping horror experience, it falls short due to a reliance on familiar tropes and a lack of genuine scares.
Plot Overview
The story follows Nicole Rawlins (Sophie Cookson), a skeptical journalist from New York, who travels to Romania to investigate the case of Father Dumitru (Corneliu Ulici). The priest is accused of murdering a nun during an exorcism. As Nicole delves deeper into the investigation, she experiences unsettling supernatural events that challenge her skepticism and beliefs.
Performance and Direction
Sophie Cookson gives a solid performance as the determined yet skeptical journalist, Nicole. Her portrayal captures the character’s internal struggle between rationality and the inexplicable. Corneliu Ulici and Brittany Ashworth provide strong supporting roles, though their characters are not fully developed, limiting the emotional impact of their performances.
Director Xavier Gens, known for his work on “Frontier(s)” and “Hitman,” creates a visually atmospheric film with effective use of the Romanian setting. However, the film’s pacing and reliance on predictable jump scares detract from its potential to deliver sustained tension and horror.
Cinematography and Production Design
The cinematography by Daniel Aranyó effectively captures the eerie and desolate landscapes of rural Romania, enhancing the film’s ominous atmosphere. The production design adds to the film’s authenticity, with the ancient churches and isolated villages contributing to the sense of dread.
Themes and Symbolism
“The Crucifixion” explores themes of faith, doubt, and the clash between science and religion. The film raises questions about the nature of evil and the psychological effects of confronting the supernatural. However, the narrative often falls into familiar exorcism movie clichés, which can diminish the impact of these themes.
Critical Reception
The film received largely negative reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an approval rating of 6%, with critics highlighting its lack of originality and over-reliance on genre conventions. According to Modern Horrors, the film feels excruciatingly long despite its 90-minute runtime, and suffers from uneven pacing and predictable scares. Horror News Network similarly critiqued the film for its generic approach and lack of notable scares.
Streaming Availability
“The Crucifixion,” it is available on various streaming platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
Conclusion
“The Crucifixion” is a mediocre entry in the exorcism horror genre, offering a few atmospheric moments but ultimately failing to stand out due to its predictable plot and lack of genuine scares. While Sophie Cookson’s performance and the film’s eerie setting are commendable, the film does not fully capitalize on its potential to deliver a compelling horror experience. Fans of supernatural horror might find some value in its creepy settings, but those looking for a fresh take on the genre may be disappointed.
