The Evangelist

A journalist investigates a series of bizarre and increasingly disturbing events surrounding a charismatic, yet unsettling, preacher who has gained a fervent following. As he delves deeper, the journalist finds himself drawn into a world of manipulation and possible supernatural occurrences, blurring the lines between faith and fear. His own sanity begins to fray as the preacher's influence spreads like a contagion.

The Evangelist received polarized reviews. Critics were divided on its thematic exploration and pacing, with some praising its ambitious attempt to tackle complex issues of faith and manipulation, while others found it overly dense and slow-burning. Audiences were similarly split, with some finding it profoundly unsettling and thought-provoking, and others dismissing it as pretentious or underdeveloped.

• Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and compelling central performances, particularly from Whishaw.

• Criticized for its convoluted narrative and deliberate, sometimes frustrating, pacing.

• Lauded for its thematic depth in exploring religious extremism and psychological manipulation.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's unique take on religious cults and the psychological toll it can take. Many found the performances to be a strong point, though some felt the plot was too ambiguous and lacked a satisfying conclusion.

Nominated for Best Actor at the Independent Spirit Awards for Ben Whishaw.

Director Jonathan Demme drew inspiration for the film's oppressive atmosphere from his own experiences attending revival meetings in his youth, which he found both fascinating and deeply unsettling.