Immaculate 2024 Movie Review

Religious-themed horror typically isn’t my cup of tea. While one’s belief (or lack thereof) doesn’t entirely determine the effectiveness of a scary movie, a touch of faith can certainly heighten the fear factor. Without it, these films often seem like mere explorations of intriguing settings—stripping them down to their bare bones, so to speak. Therefore, when a film like “Immaculate” opts not to overly dwell on religious themes, I find it refreshing. Coupled with a strong central performance and some unexpected gore, it should satisfy fans of the genre.

“Immaculate” dabbles in some intriguing concepts, but at its core, it mainly delivers gore, jump scares, and a platform for its leading scream queen. It doesn’t reinvent the horror wheel, although it does utilize its convent setting in a slightly unconventional manner. Primarily, it serves as a showcase for its star, and in that aspect, it largely succeeds.

The story revolves around Sister Cecilia (played by Sydney Sweeney), who finds herself at My Lady of Sorrows convent in the Italian countryside following the closure of her parish in Michigan. As she settles in, strange occurrences begin, and Cecilia’s life takes a sinister turn.

Declared a virgin, Cecilia’s supposed immaculate conception prompts special treatment from the convent. However, suspicions arise as she’s prohibited from seeking medical help outside. As the body count rises, Cecilia proves to be far from the docile figure the convent presumed her to be, leading to a climactic and bloody showdown.

Sydney Sweeney shines as the protagonist, showcasing her talent as a scream queen. Her portrayal exudes both vulnerability and intensity, adding layers to her character. While Álvaro Morte and Benedetta Porcaroli deliver solid performances, it’s Sweeney who commands the screen. The supporting cast also lends credible support to her performance.

Director Michael Mohan, collaborating again with Sweeney after “The Voyeurs,” handles the material effectively, though the direction leans towards cliché at times. However, the film’s gore is well-executed, and despite occasional lapses into silliness, the script maintains a sense of tension. Notably, the filmmakers opt for a memorable finale that avoids excessive gore, opting instead for a more impactful resolution.

“Immaculate” primarily serves as a vehicle for Sydney Sweeney’s talents, but it remains a competent horror flick in its own right. With its visceral gore, impactful ending, and Sweeney’s standout performance, it offers an entertaining experience for fans of the genre. While it may not exceed expectations for all viewers, it’s certainly worth a watch for those seeking a showcase of Sweeney’s scream queen prowess.