Demonic

Demonic is a 2015 horror film from director Will Canon. The film is a part chiller, part crime thriller, and part psychological drama, blurring the boundary between what's real and what's justified fear. The plot neatly unfolds through two distinct storylines that all converge in a memorable climax. The film manages to successfully balance turns between the supernatural and the crime thriller aspects of the movie. The gripping story showcases a powerful mix of suspense, terror, and raw emotion.

The ensemble cast headed by Maria Bello, Frank Grillo, and Cody Horn delivers excellent and convincing performances throughout the spine-chilling narrative. Bello shines as the intuitive and highly respected psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Klein, Grillo impresses with his raw performance as Detective Mark Lewis, and Cody Horn’s performance as Michelle offers a pleasant surprise for the viewers. Esteemed supporting actors like Dustin Milligan and Scott Mechlowicz amplify the plot's tension as integral characters to the tragedy that unfolds.

The film begins as Detective Mark Lewis (Frank Grillo) is called to an abandoned house where he finds troubled and shocked survivors who witnessed an inexplicable horror, illuminating the grim face of evil. In parallel, psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Klein (Maria Bello) is assigned to examine one of the survivors. As the investigations proceed, the film uses an unorthodox technique to unravel the details behind the tragic incident, crafting a suspenseful and chilling atmosphere.

Unraveling the haunting scenario further, the storyline involves a group of amateur ghost hunters who dared to disturb an abandoned house said to be a notorious haven of demonic activity, in hopes of capturing evidence of the supernatural. As the tragedy at the house unfolds, the ghost hunters' footage plays a pivotal role in the story's progression. From time to time, the narrative ingeniously juggles between the real-time investigation and the found footage from the ghost hunters, maximizing the creepiness quotient.

"Demonic" uses the forensic investigation to synergize the usual horror tropes with a procedural crime drama. The narrative maintains a moderate pace, leading to an explosive climax. If you crave a good horror flick that offers more than just empty jump scares, this movie is packed with enough suspense and plot twists to keep you on edge.

The film showcases excellent cinematography, as the dilapidated house's eerie environment is beautifully highlighted, augmenting the movie's overall scary tone. From dimly lit rooms to creaking floorboards and distant shadows, the movie never fails to maintain a palpable tension. The sanguinary environment of the house is depicted with an effective use of special effects and makeup that amplifies the shock value of the narrative.

The intriguing background score complements the movie's somber tone providing a chillingly atmospheric setting. Spot-on sound design aids the suspenseful and eerie moments, making the audience hold their breath, waiting for the forthcoming horror. The screenplay is well written, seamlessly blending the initial jest of a group of young thrill-seekers with a sinister undercurrent that soon takes center stage.

"Demonic" proves to be a nerve-rattling horror film that doesn’t rely solely on gore or cheap thrills to send a shiver down your spine. Its narrative is sleek and streamlined with finely drawn characters, each adding a unique dimension to the story. The riveting performances, intriguing storyline, and stimulating suspense all ensure that "Demonic" is a refreshingly decent entry in the horror genre that will keep you guessing and invested until the very end.