Film Previews
7/3/2024
“The Exorcism”
R | 93 minutes
Director: Joshua John Miller
Writers: M.A. Fortin, Joshua John Miller
Stars: Russell Crowe, Ryan Simpkins, Sam Worthington
To answer the obvious question: Yes, this sounds extremely familiar. Russell Crowe, in a clerical collar, battling a demon — we just saw this in last year’s “The Pope’s Exorcist,” right? Yes, and the background of “The Exorcism” is even stranger. Written and directed by Joshua John Miller — son of Jason Miller, who played Father Damien Karras in 1973’s “The Exorcist” — the movie is inspired by his father’s stories about the troubled production of “The Exorcist.” Miller wrote this film as a semi-autobiographical piece, with Crowe’s character, Anthony Miller, potentially inspired by his own father. Russell Crowe stars as Anthony Miller, a troubled actor who begins to unravel while shooting a supernatural horror film. His estranged daughter, Lee (Ryan Simpkins), wonders if he’s slipping back into his past addictions or if there’s something more sinister at play.
“Thelma”
PG-13 | 97 minutes
Director/Writer: Josh Margolin
Stars: June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Richard Roundtree
In “Thelma,” June Squibb shines as the spirited titular heroine, embarking on a thrilling quest after falling victim to a scam targeting the elderly. At 94 years old, Squibb effortlessly commands the screen, delivering a performance that blends humor and determination. Alongside Richard Roundtree’s Ben, Thelma dives headfirst into a world of high-stakes schemes, reclaiming her dignity with every twist and turn. Supported by a talented cast including Parker Posey and Clark Gregg, “Thelma” promises a rollercoaster of emotions and thrills. As the film unfolds, Thelma’s unwavering spirit shines through, leaving audiences inspired by her determination to confront adversity head-on. Director Josh Margolin deftly mixes heart-pounding action reminiscent of “Mission: Impossible” with poignant reflections on aging and independence. Thelma and Ben’s journey not only entertains but also explores themes of resilience and pride. As she triumphs over challenges, Thelma reminds viewers of the enduring power of perseverance and the importance of embracing life’s adventures, no matter the age.
“What Remains”
131 minutes
Director: Ran Huang
Writers: Megan Everett-Skarsgard, Ran Huang
Stars: Stellan Skarsgård, Gustaf Skarsgård, Andrea Riseborough
Experience the haunting mystery of “What Remains,” Ran Huang’s poignant directorial debut. Set against the stark backdrop of Scandinavia’s haunting landscapes, the film unfolds as Mads (Gustav Skarsgård), an inmate at a psychiatric institute, confronts his connection to decades-old murders. Supported by therapist Anna (Andrea Riseborough) and police officer Soren (Stellan Skarsgård), Mads grapples with the shadows of his own actions, weaving a web of complex relationships that blur the lines between victim and perpetrator. In Huang’s controlled narrative, the austere architecture mirrors the characters’ fractured lives, while the performances draw us into a world where moral boundaries dissolve. As Anna’s maternal instincts clash with Mads’ troubled past and Soren seeks redemption from his own demons, “What Remains” probes the depths of human frailty and resilience.
