Possessed
An 11 year old boy starts throwing temper tantrums, vomiting on and attacking people, and swearing uncontrollably. Furniture begins to move on its own when he is around, and he doesn't remember any of it. After giving up on the protestants, the boy's parents turn to the catholic church for help. Father Bowden is a WWII veteran who is experiencing nightmares, flashbacks and other personal problems, including alcoholism. He is recruited by the archbishop to perform a series of exorcisms. This is the apparent true account of the last exorcism known to have been done by the catholic church.
Insights
Plot Summary
This film is a compilation of footage from several early Universal horror films, presented as a new narrative. It follows a psychiatrist trying to understand the terrifying experiences of a young woman who claims to be possessed by the spirit of her dead husband. Through flashbacks and excerpts from other films, the story delves into themes of madness, obsession, and the supernatural.
Critical Reception
As a compilation film, 'Possessed' received mixed reviews, primarily for its narrative coherence and the abrupt transitions between its sourced clips. However, the underlying performances from classic horror actors and the atmospheric direction in the original sequences were often highlighted as strengths.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for showcasing classic horror performances.
- Criticized for its disjointed narrative structure.
- The attempt to create a new story from old footage is considered ambitious but flawed.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this compilation film. Those that exist often note the appeal of seeing iconic horror actors like Lon Chaney Sr. and John Barrymore, but acknowledge the film's limitations as a cohesive story.
Fun Fact
Much of the film reuses footage from Universal horror classics such as 'Dracula' (1931), 'Frankenstein' (1931), and 'The Phantom of the Opera' (1925), with new scenes shot to connect them.
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