The Secrets of Emily Blair – aka The Exorcism of Emily Blair – is a 2016 American horror film directed by Joseph P. Genier from a screenplay by Patricia Harrington. It stars Ellen Hollman, Colm Meaney and Francia Raisa.
Desperate to save his fiancee from a demon that has possessed her soul, a man turns to his longtime priest for help…
The film is currently available to view on Netflix.
Review:
Hilariously overwrought yet amusingly entertaining, this is a film that moves apace and doesn’t pause for any considered character development. It’s a case of let the possession commence right from the start. After years of many similar movies, maybe that’s a blessing?
Suggestions of alcohol addiction, predatory sexual activity (advancing on her female flatmate Emily coos: “Can I sleep with you tonight?”) and bipolar behaviour are ticked but the demonic doldrums are clearly unavoidable and essential for the film to fit into its obvious thematic religious dumb-for-the-masses (“You’re a priest, you’re supposed to believe in this shit!”). A sub-plot about a wayward violent priest does not work.
This is another exorcism-themed entry into an already overcrowded sub-genre. Silly, yet never dull (“We’re gonna make it through this, I promise you.”) this is a film that’s difficult to recommend. It’s rubbish but enjoyable despite its faults.
Adrian J Smith, Horrorpedia
Main cast:
Ellen Hollman, Colm Meany (The Devil’s Hand), Francia Raisa, Adrian Paul, Jonathan LaPaglia, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Larry Drake (Dr. Giggles; Darkman; Dark Night of the Scarecrow), Valarie Pettiford, Peter Macon, John Duff, Gideon Emery, Sherilyn Fenn, Will Kemp.
Choice dialogue:
Emilie: “You shouldn’t be scared, you should be horrified!”
Filming locations:
Los Angeles, California, USA
