The Possession of Joel Delaney

A wealthy and naive New York socialite, Norah Mulvaney, begins to suspect that her husband, Joel, is possessed by a malevolent spirit. As Joel's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent, Norah seeks help from a priest and a parapsychologist, but finds herself increasingly isolated and terrified as the entity's influence grows.

The Possession of Joel Delaney received mixed reviews upon its release. While some critics praised its atmospheric tension and Shirley MacLaine's performance, others found the plot convoluted and the supernatural elements unconvincing. It has since gained a cult following among horror enthusiasts for its unique take on possession and its unsettling mood.

• Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and a strong central performance.
• Criticized for a confusing narrative and less-than-convincing demonic possession elements.
• Considered an interesting, albeit flawed, entry in 1970s horror cinema.

Google audience: Audience reviews are varied, with some appreciating the film's psychological horror and period details, while others find its pacing slow and its supernatural scares underdeveloped compared to later genre entries.

The film was one of the last directorial efforts of Waris Hussein in feature films before he largely transitioned to television.