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Millennial entrepreneurs, Drew and Max, run a webcast that streams live exorcisms that are, in fact, elaborately staged hoaxes. But they get their comeuppance when today’s actress becomes mysteriously possessed by a real demon that holds the crew hostage. To make matters worse– the possessed victim is Drew’s fiancée, Lane. In front of a rapidly-growing global audience, the demon subjects Max to a series of violent and humiliating challenges meant to punish him for his online charade. Meanwhile, in an effort to save the love of his life, Drew discovers that the demon’s sinister motive is not only about revenge, but also to expose the dark secrets he, Max, and Lane have been hiding from one another. With only the show clock remaining, it’s a matter of time before either the truth is revealed or the demon forces them to meet their maker.
Duration: 94 min
Released: 2018
IMDb Rating: 5.6/10 (475 Votes)
Genre: Dubbed Movies
Stars: Kyle Gallner, Ryan Guzman, Joanna David, Emma Holzer
Directors: Damien LeVeck
Writers: Damien LeVeck, Aaron Horwitz
Year: 2018
The Cleansing Hour (2019): A Chilling Dive into Demonic Exorcism
Overview:
Released in 2019, The Cleansing Hour is a riveting horror movie that masterfully blends supernatural elements with modern technology, creating a fresh take on the exorcism genre. Directed by Damien LeVeck and written by Dan Knight, this film delves into the dangers of exploiting dark spiritual rituals as entertainment, highlighting the unpredictable nature of true evil.
Plot Summary:
The storyline centers on Max McLellan (portrayed by Ryan Guzman) and Drew (played by Kyle Gallner), two best friends who run a successful webcast show called "The Cleansing Hour." Their popular broadcast features staged exorcisms designed purely for entertainment, boasting impressive special effects to convince viewers that these demonic possessions are real.
Max serves as the charismatic host, captivating audiences with his commanding presence, while Drew, a former priest, provides authentic spiritual knowledge and carefully choreographs the performances to look genuine. However, the duo's world is abruptly turned upside down when a genuine demonic possession occurs during one of their live webcasts, spiraling into a terrifying reality far beyond their control.
The tension escalates as Max and Drew confront the malevolent spirit and struggle to save themselves—and those around them—from supernatural destruction. The film explores deep themes such as faith, skepticism, friendship, and the consequences of blurring truth with spectacle.
Main Cast and Characters:
Director and Writer:
Damien LeVeck directs the film, bringing an intense and atmospheric style that keeps viewers on edge. LeVeck’s direction expertly balances suspense with character development, ensuring the horror elements never overshadow the personal stakes.
The screenplay is crafted by Dan Knight, whose insightful writing offers a modern twist on the classic exorcism trope. Knight's script is layered with sharp dialogue and thought-provoking moments, allowing the narrative to delve into contemporary issues such as the influence of social media and the thirst for sensationalism.
Production and Style:
Set in the digital age, The Cleansing Hour utilizes the live streaming format to create an immersive and claustrophobic experience, amplifying the suspense through a confined setting and real-time unfolding of events. The effective use of minimal locations and practical effects contributes to a grounded and gritty atmosphere.
The film's pacing maintains a rising tension, blending psychological horror with supernatural shocks. It respects traditional horror sensibilities while incorporating new-age fears surrounding viral media and the quest for online notoriety.
Reception and Impact:
Upon release, The Cleansing Hour was recognized for its fresh storytelling within the exorcism genre. Audiences appreciated the strong performances by Ryan Guzman and Kyle Gallner, whose chemistry anchors the film’s emotional core. Critics highlighted the movie’s clever premise and the effective blend of horror and social commentary.
While not a blockbuster, the film carved out a niche for itself among horror enthusiasts who enjoy films that challenge genre conventions and bring innovative elements to familiar narratives.
Final Thoughts:
The Cleansing Hour offers a compelling mix of horror, suspense, and modern-day themes, presenting a cautionary tale about the consequences of distorting spiritual matters for entertainment. Its strong cast, particularly Guzman and Gallner, along with thoughtful direction and writing, make it a standout entry worth exploring for fans of supernatural horror looking for something with a contemporary edge.
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