Those of us who were scared senseless 30 years ago while watching "The Exorcist" took comfort that it was just a movie. But in what seems to be a bid to spike the fear factor, "The Exorcism of Emily Rose" is promoted as being based on a true story. Director Scott Derrickson calls it the first "courtroom horror film." But as horror it's not so horrifying, and as a courtroom drama we can see better any night on "Law and Order." Read the full review
The Catholic Church sanctions an exorcism for a 19-year-old college freshman who is believed to be possessed by demons. When the priest performing the exorcism is accused of negligence in the girl's death, a laywer takes on the task of defending him in court.
Director: Scott Derrickson
Starring: Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson, Campbell Scott, Colm Feore, Jennifer Carpenter
Run time: 114 minutes
Release date: September 9, 2005
Rating: PG-13 for thematic material including intense/frightening sequences and disturbing images.
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The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: C
"... never takes full advantage of its premise's rich possibilities and is shot as unimaginatively as a 1970s made-for-TV movie."
The Palm Beach Post: C
"Horror fans will soon grow impatient with those wordy courtroom scenes and those who don't mind listening and thinking will be turned off by the schlock shock effects."
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