But Deliver Us From Evil

But Deliver Us From Evil is an intriguing supernatural-horror-mystery film, directed by Joshua Coates, and featuring a gripping performance from its star-studded cast including Eric Roberts, Grant Harvey, and Pooch Hall. This 2017 release marries biblical mythology with modern existential fears, resulting in a cinematic experience that is equal parts unnerving and thought-provoking.

Dive deep into a story where ancient lore and scripture meet modern crime and horror. Lilith, a cunning creature from Jewish mythology, is unleashed on present-day Atlanta, Georgia. Mortals came to know this female demon as Adam's first wife, a woman created from the same dust as Adam and thus considered his equal. Unsatisfied with being ruled over, she was ejected from the Garden of Eden. The story begins as Lilith returns to Earth, seeking vengeance on the progeny of her former husband.

Eric Roberts, known for his masterful character interpretations, is Detective John Bennett, a relentless investigator who is no stranger to the city's darkness but still finds himself bewildered by the gravity of the case at hand - a series of sudden and unexplained disappearances of some of Atlanta's most influential men. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Bennett finds an unlikely link between the victims - their faith. This discovery forces him to confront a question - could a force of evil, a creature from ancient lore, have infiltrated the mortal world?

Grant Harvey plays Aaron Wilcox, a charming and eloquent young man, carrying an unnerving air of secrecy. He presents himself as an author who is researching for his next book, focusing on contrasting Biblical theology with modern societal issues. However, there's much more to Aaron than meets the eye. His connection to the strange cases and to Lilith is something that adds layers of suspense and intrigue to the plot.

In the role of reverend Reynolds, Pooch Hall brings charisma and a certain contested morality to the screen. Reynolds is a trustful ally of detective Bennett, helming from the same faith community as the victims. As the losses within his community pile up, the confident and inspirational preacher finds his faith shaken, forcing him to question his beliefs and the forces that could test them so cruelly.

The film is drenched in an atmosphere of constant tension, as ancient supernatural fears collide with the very modern terror of being hunted through city streets. This ominous ambiance is crafted not just by the narrative, but is also enhanced by the expert cinematography that captures the terror lurking in the otherwise mundane corners of our everyday world. From the foggy woods reminiscent of every ghost story told to the urban sprawl of Atlanta city, the film creates jarring contrasts that service its juxtaposition of ancient myth and modern fear brilliantly.

But Deliver Us From Evil, while being a horror-thriller at its core, also explores deep existential and philosophical themes. It raises questions about morality, vengeance, the age-old battle of good versus evil, and the power dynamics between men and women.

The uniting factor for all these elements is the all-consuming presence of Lilith. Her character, despite being a supernatural entity, is rendered with relatable motivations - revenge and search for freedom. It is this character's journey that leads the narrative and unravels the movie's deeper meanings.

Overall, But Deliver Us From Evil blends elements of horror, crime, thriller, and drama genres with bits of ancient theology. While maintaining its suspenseful tone throughout, it examines humanity's age-long cultures and beliefs in a wholly new light. It's a harrowing tale of revenge that makes for a bonafide edge-of-your-seat viewing experience.