The Unholy (2021)
“The Unholy” (2021) is a supernatural horror film directed by Evan Spiliotopoulos, based on the novel Shrine by James Herbert. The film stars Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Katie Aselton, and William Sadler, and is known for its blend of religious horror and chilling suspense.
The story centers around a young deaf girl named Alice (Cricket Brown), who experiences a miraculous healing after a visit to a mysterious shrine. Following her recovery, Alice begins to exhibit disturbing supernatural abilities and claims to be communicating with the Virgin Mary. Her newfound powers attract widespread attention and lead to a surge in faith and devotion from the local community, drawing crowds to witness what is believed to be a divine miracle.
However, as Alice’s powers grow, so do the unsettling and malevolent forces surrounding her. A skeptical journalist named Gerry Fenn (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) investigates the phenomenon and soon discovers that the source of Alice’s power is far from holy. He uncovers a dark and sinister presence that threatens to consume not only Alice but also the entire community.
The Unholy explores themes of faith, skepticism, and the clash between good and evil. The film combines traditional horror elements with religious motifs, creating an atmosphere of dread and suspense. It delves into the consequences of exploiting faith for personal gain and the dangers of unearthing malevolent forces.
The film received mixed reviews, with some praising its eerie atmosphere and the performances, particularly from Jeffrey Dean Morgan, while others criticized its plot and execution. Despite this, The Unholy offers a chilling and atmospheric horror experience for fans of supernatural and religious horror.