Cult Dynamics Explored in Religious Commune

Read Time:5 Minute, 5 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Sacrament
–

Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year Released: 2013, 2024 Second Sight Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Ti West
Writer(s): Ti West
Cast: AJ Bowen, Joe Swanberg, Amy Seimetz
Where To Watch: available June 24, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.secondsightfilms.co.uk

RAVING REVIEW: Ti West, most widely known for his recent release of hits including PEARL, X, and the upcoming MAXXXINE, brought one of the most intriguing films I had seen in some time to the screen back in 2013, and thanks to Second Sight films, THE SACRAMENT will bring a captivating narrative that melds the real with the terrifying, diving deep into the unsettling world of a secluded religious commune. The story follows journalist Patrick, played by Kentucker Audley, on his quest to find his sister Caroline (Amy Seimetz), who has mysteriously joined a seemingly utopian community. Accompanied by his colleagues Sam (AJ Bowen) and Jake (Joe Swanberg), Patrick ventures into Eden Parish, a compound ruled by the enigmatic "Father" (Gene Jones).

Eden Parish initially presents itself as a peaceful haven, detached from the chaos of the outside world. However, as the plot thickens, the darker aspects of this community start to surface. West's decision to use a "fake documentary" style, setting it apart from traditional found footage, adds a layer of realism that pulls viewers into the eerie narrative. The steady cinematography by Eric Robbins further enhances this immersive experience, creating a vivid atmosphere of impending doom. If all of this sounds a little bit familiar, the film was “inspired” by the actual events that took place during the Jonestown Massacre in 1978, where over 900 Americans lost their lives.

Gene Jones stands out as "Father," a parallel to the actual Jim Jones, a cult leader from the Peoples Temple from 1955 to 1978. Gene delivers a performance that shifts seamlessly from warm and welcoming to chilling and authoritarian. His Southern accent and seemingly benign demeanor mask a much darker purpose, which is slowly unveiled as the story progresses. The tension in the film escalates as the true nature of the commune is exposed.

West's meticulous pacing is a highlight of THE SACRAMENT. The deliberate build-up of suspense ensures that the horror elements hit with full force when they finally emerge. By presenting the story as a documentary, West adds a layer of authenticity that heightens the overall tension, making the horror elements feel immediate and plausible.

THE SACRAMENT is not without its faults. The film's parallels to the Jonestown tragedy might feel overly direct, potentially undermining its originality. The predictability of the narrative could also detract from the suspense for viewers familiar with the historical events it mirrors, making the film seem more derivative than groundbreaking. My most significant issue is with the smaller scale of the film, with a final death toll in the 200s; it almost seems underwhelming compared to the actual events. This may be where real life was too absurd for people to believe.

Some argue that the abrupt transition from peace to chaos lacks the psychological buildup to justify the characters' extreme actions fully. This sudden shift can make the ending feel rushed and less impactful, leaving viewers questioning the plausibility of the characters' decisions, especially the rapid descent of the cult members into violence. However, having watched a few documentaries on Jonestown, this perfectly parallels how things happened.

THE SACRAMENT succeeds in creating a deeply unsettling atmosphere. The film's ability to provoke a strong emotional response without relying heavily on gore or special effects showcases West's skill in crafting psychological horror. The cast's strong performances significantly contribute to the film's lasting impact. I also appreciate that West took some creative liberties with the film, making it his own.

In conclusion, THE SACRAMENT is a solid addition to the horror/found footage genre. Its blend of documentary realism and narrative tension offers an eye-opening perspective on the dynamics of cults. While it may not wholly redefine the genre, its execution and atmospheric depth make it a compelling watch for fans of psychological horror. The film's exploration of themes like faith, control, and the human psyche adds layers of complexity that linger long after the credits roll.

Special Features:
Indie Guys at Heart: A new interview with Actor AJ Bowen
The Best Pathway: A New Interview with Actor Joe Swanberg
An Ecstatic State: A New Interview with Actor Amy Seimetz
The Itch to Act: A New Interview with Actor Gene Jones
A Wild Ride: A New Interview with Producer Peter Phok
Truthiness: Alexandra Heller-Nicholas on The Sacrament
We’re Not Sinners Here: The Making of The Sacrament

Limited Edition Contents:
Rigid slipcase with new artwork by Chris Malbon
70-page book with new essays by Anton Bitel, Kat Hughes, Rich Johnson, and Beth Kelly
Six collectors' art cards

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of SECOND SIGHT FILMS]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.