The Manitou

A young woman discovers she is pregnant with an ancient, evil spirit named Manitou, which is being brought to life by a malevolent Native American shaman. The spirit grows rapidly within her, threatening to be born as a powerful demonic entity. A psychiatrist and an occult expert must race against time to perform an exorcism and defeat the spirit before it fully manifests and unleashes its fury upon the world.

The Manitou is widely regarded as a cult classic of 1970s horror, often cited for its bizarre premise and unashamedly over-the-top execution. While panned by many critics upon its release for its campy tone, special effects that haven't aged well, and nonsensical plot, it has gained a devoted following for its sheer audacity and unique blend of horror and fantasy elements. Audience reception is generally divided between those who appreciate its cult status and those who find it simply too ridiculous.

• Praised for its unique and bizarre premise, offering a different kind of horror experience.
• Often criticized for its low-budget special effects and over-the-top, campy nature.
• Seen as a product of its time, embracing outlandish concepts with a distinct 70s horror flair.

Google audience: Google users often find 'The Manitou' to be a uniquely bizarre and entertaining horror film, appreciating its cult status and outlandish concept, though some acknowledge its dated special effects and campy elements.

The film is based on the 1969 novel of the same name by Graham Masterton, which was Masterton's debut novel and became a bestseller.