The Last Exorcism (2010) Review in 2025
A documentary-style horror film about a disillusioned evangelical minister who agrees to let a film crew follow him as he performs his last exorcism. The film takes a dark and terrifying turn as the minister encounters a malevolent spirit.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to graphic content, strong language, and disturbing themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of horror and thriller genres, particularly those who enjoy supernatural and demonic possession themes. However, viewer discretion is advised due to graphic content and disturbing themes.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film's climax reveals that the possessed girl, Nell, is not just a victim of demonic possession but a vessel for an ancient evil entity. The entity's true intentions are to use Nell to spread its influence and destroy the minister's faith.
Review Details
story8.50/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique blend of documentary-style realism and supernatural horror. The plot twists and turns, keeping the viewer on edge until the very end.
acting8.50/10
The acting is top-notch, particularly from Patrick Fabian as Cotton Marcus. The supporting cast delivers solid performances, but some actors feel a bit miscast in their roles.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, particularly the minister, Cotton Marcus, who is both likable and flawed. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, but some characters feel underutilized.
direction8.50/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film's tone and atmosphere. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting adds to the sense of realism, making the horror elements feel more authentic.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is effective in creating a sense of tension and unease, particularly in the more intense scenes. However, some shots feel a bit shaky and amateurish, which may be intentional but still detracts from the overall viewing experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, effective direction, and top-notch acting make this film a standout in the horror genre. The unique blend of documentary-style realism and supernatural horror adds to the film's tension and unease.
Cons
Some characters feel underutilized, and the cinematography can be a bit shaky at times. However, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall viewing experience.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a believer in the supernatural, but I do believe in the power of suggestion."
"I'm not afraid of the devil, I'm afraid of what he can do to people."
"You're not just a minister, you're a salesman."
