Five days in the lives of exorcist Eloy de Palma (Lluis Marco) and his granddaughter Alba (Claudia Pons), working in the Barcelona area.
We get a strong opening, with great use of camera technique and color, along with a gripping score from Jordi Dalmau. The New York Times refers to Dalmau's work as "an eerie, echoing sound design of plinking pianos and ghostly choirs." It is that and much more. Of course, this level of greatness is not maintained for the full duration, but it really showcases the potential of those involved.
Adam Clarke has reviewed the film mostly positively, saying it is "full of interesting ideas" and singling out the cinematography of Xavi Garriga (in his feature film debut). What Clarke appreciates most is the "switching genres" between "exorcism, police procedural and apocalypse drama." He is absolutely right for singling out Garriga, who hopefully continues to make more films. If nothing else comes of this, Garriga should have a bright career.
Some people may be turned off my the subtitles, but that is their loss. While this may not be the greatest film in the exorcism category of horror films, it is different enough that it should be praised for its originality. A new twist on an old theme, with some imagery that evokes comparisons to David Cronenberg's early work? Keep your eyes on this one.
