Exorcism of Emily Rose, The

The Case For Religion

Main Cast: Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson, Jennifer Carpenter, Campbell Scott

Director: Scott Derrickson

The_Exorcism_Of_Emily_RoseCleverly written and dramatically presented, this courtroom-horror still pretty much pushes its religion in a positive light, albeit subtly. Based on a “true” story, it details the trial of a Catholic priest (Wilkinson) who took over the care of a young woman named Emily Rose (Carpenter). She, and her family, believed that she was possessed by demons, and the priest was called in to get rid of them. He seemed to fail, and the young woman died.

Heading his defense is Erin Bruner (Linney), an intelligent and dedicated woman who, through the beginning of the movie, calls herself an “agnostic”. But methinks the lady protests too much, and indeed she quickly begins to believe the supernatural explanation offered. I must admit that the prosecutor (Scott) is not- forgive the pun- demonized, but shown as just as dedicated. He believes that Emily suffered from purely medical conditions that could have been treated, thus her death was unnecessary. Quite frankly I thought his case was stronger, and- but I won’t give the ending away.

Do I recommend this one? It’s tough. As a nontheist I don’t have an opinion one way or the other. While it obviously tosses out many spooky things and urges you to believe that demons, God, and such exist, it still does leave the door slightly open in that the young woman could have simply been mentally ill. In that I must commend them. Otherwise, it is a skillfully directed and written thriller. In that I can compliment it.

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