The Possessed
The Possessed

Movie spotlight

The Possessed

1975
Movie
97 min
Greek

A young psychiatrist, Eleni Stavrianou, with painful experiences after her psychopathic father killed her mother and then committed suicide, is treating young Christina, who suffers from severe schizophrenia. In her efforts to help her, she clashes with the girl's family, who believe that salvation can only come from God. Because of this mindset, the relatives try to cure the sick girl with exorcisms. With all this, of course, the patient's condition continues to worsen, but the doctor also begins to gradually lose her footing and feel her mental balance and spiritual clarity being disrupted, until she herself is driven to schizophrenia.

Insights

IMDb5.8/10
Director: Sidney LumetGenres: Drama, Horror

Plot Summary

A troubled Brooklyn man, consumed by guilt over a past tragedy, finds himself increasingly drawn into a mysterious and potentially supernatural phenomenon. As his grip on reality loosens, he confronts unsettling visions and the dark secrets of his own past. His journey into the abyss tests his sanity and forces him to face his deepest fears in a desperate search for redemption.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Possessed' received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with many finding its supernatural elements underdeveloped and its narrative disjointed. While some acknowledged the strong performances, particularly from Kirk Douglas, the film was often criticized for its pacing and unclear thematic direction. Audiences were similarly divided, with some appreciating its darker, psychological aspects, while others found it unsatisfying.

What Reviewers Say

  • Panned for its confusing plot and underwhelming supernatural elements.

  • Kirk Douglas's performance was a bright spot, but couldn't save the film.

  • Lacked the depth and clarity expected from a Sidney Lumet film.

Google audience: Audience reviews are sparse and generally indicate dissatisfaction with the film's convoluted narrative and its failure to deliver on its horror premise.

Fun Fact

The film was originally intended to be a more straightforward horror film but was reportedly re-edited by the studio, leading to its disjointed nature and a departure from Sidney Lumet's original vision.

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