El exorcismo de Eastfield

"Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism," a 2023 Australian film, takes viewers on a tense journey through the blurred lines between mental health and possession. The movie follows the gripping tale of a troubled young couple, Lara and Ron, as they grapple with the possibility of an exorcism to cure her disturbing behavior. With impactful scenes depicting Ron's desperation and the involvement of an unsanctioned exorcist named Daniel, the film delves into the darker aspects of faith and the human psyche.

The movie draws inspiration from the real-life case of Joan Vollmer, shedding light on the chilling events that unfolded over a four-day period, culminating in tragedy. The performances of the cast, including Georgia Eyers as Lara and Dan Ewing as Ron, effectively convey the emotional turmoil and internal struggle of the characters.

While "Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism" explores thought-provoking themes of religious fervor, mental health, and the consequences of blind faith, it falls short in certain aspects. The filmmakers have opted for a psychological approach rather than relying on traditional horror tropes like spinning heads and excessive gore. However, this approach may leave some viewers longing for more suspenseful and visually striking moments.

Directed by Nick Kozakis and penned by Alexander Angliss-Wilson and Sarah Baker, the film's strength lies in its willingness to tackle complex themes surrounding demonic possession and religious beliefs. While it may not satisfy those seeking traditional horror thrills, its thought-provoking narrative offers a unique perspective on the clash between the human mind and the supernatural.

So I watched this last night and it has been stuck in my head pretty much all day. If you don't know this is inspired by a true story. It's also not a horror film! I hate that this is marked as a horror film. I was disturbed and very much sad by the end of the film. This is a perfect example of when a radical religion goes to far. I say radical because there are different types of Christianity. I was raised in a Southern Baptist Church and there is no way anyone would have condoned or thought that this was okay in the way this was handled. The sad part is I looked up and read the true story which IMO was far worse. I truly felt for Lara. Trauma is very misunderstood. It can cause worse mental illness if left untreated. I feel the secret which is unveiled closer to the end of the film was much more gutwrenching than I ever saw coming. I saw where the film was going once it got closer to the end and I didn't want too. From a technical aspect the film is stunning. The director does a beautiful job building up tension, and immediately sets up a story and lets you feel the dread* . The acting is wonderful. You feel for Lara, your frustrated with Ron as he makes decisions for his wife and you almost hate him but know he's just frustrated. Pretty much anyone from "The Church" ( if that's what you can even call this religious group) you immediately know something is quite off about all of them. The only happiness that is shown in this entire film is during the flashback to what happened that caused all this mess. During these scenes I felt deeply for Laura again because you can see the happiness in her life and how fast in a glimpse of a moment it's all taken away.

For anyone religious I encourage you to see this.

For anyone who likes true crime I encourage you to see it. It will make you think!

@OverlookFilmFestival (Encore screening)

One of the hurdles that horror films need to clear is is keeping the viewer engaged when it's not "fright time" . That bar proves insurmountably high in "Godless," a confident if unpersuasive story about an exorcism sought out by a husband for his wife after she exhibits strange behavior.

Director Kozakis knows his way around visual language carefully constructing its confined spaces to create a sense of unease that shifts into stifling claustrophobia as the film descends into the madness of the situation.

Standout performances by lead Georgia Eyers and Dan Ewing who showcases a noteworthy portrayal of a quintessential flawed and toxic husband.

I'm sure this will not appeal to all due to its graphic nature but I found it thoroughly engaging and quite a tense experience.

*Warning: may leave you a little distraught and angry.

Ughh this movie is so sad and frustrating. This isn't the GREATEST movie, but worth hanging in there as there are some shocking moments. Definitely not a horror, but it is horrifying. The end is absolutely appalling and when you find out the event leading up to her crisis (of faith? Mental crisis?) it makes it all the more heartbreaking. How did Lara end up with this loser? I need a prequel to find out how she settled for this douchebag zealot - total downgrade.

All of these characters belong in jail. It makes it even more disturbing that very similar events really happened and more than once.

The film's premise makes you think you're getting into a typical studio horror film, however, Godless: The Eastfield Exorcism is surprisingly well-directed and written, following the based on a true premise of an Australian exorcism. Director Nick Kozakis showcases plenty of traditional visual and storytelling talent but isn't afraid to get Into the grit and nuance of moments, and the film benefits greatly from that approach. Its often uncompromising approach takes what might be a more standard spooky affair and turns it into one you won't soon forget. Complete with the punchiest sound design imaginable, some strong lead performances, and inventive camera work, Godless makes for quite an intense picture.