“The Exorcism of Saint Patrick”

I really loved the twisted social issue horror that embodies “The Exorcism of Saint Patrick,” director Quinn Armstrong’s haunting exploration of the disturbing consequences of conversion therapy. Casting a harsh light on the very real and terrifying practices that still persist today, the film delves into psychological and supernatural realms to create an experience that is equally thought-provoking and chilling. This is the first (and best) of three films in the director’s “Fresh Hell” trilogy, which includes “Wolves Against the World” and “Dead Teenagers.”

 A pastor (Steve Pinder) takes a gay teen (Michael J. Cline) on a conversion therapy retreat at a remote cabin in the woods. Convinced that his young charge needs “fixing,” the pastor gets a lot more than he bargained for when the weekend ends in death after his methods push the teenager to suicide. Vengeful ghosts are awakened, and they are ready to drag the pastor into a version of hell that is of his own making.

 It is so satisfying to watch as the pastor gets his “what-for,” which is absolutely deserved. Armstrong’s film feels incredibly personal, and the setting of a gay conversion program is an inspired choice for a horror film, (it’s seriously a backdrop that is just as terrifying as any haunted house could ever be).

 The film does an excellent job of portraying the pastor and the teen with depth and realism actor, and both deliver strong performances while showing off a great deal of range. The pastor is a convincingly menacing figure whose faith is twisted into something monstrous. His is a character that serves as a painful reminder of how religion can be weaponized to justify unspeakable acts.

 The film’s social commentary is sharp and unrelenting. It’s horrific not just because of the vengeful ghosts, but because it reveals the true monsters in this scenario: those who hide behind the guise of faith and righteousness to inflict pain on the vulnerable. The bullying and psychological torment that leads to the teen’s death are portrayed with a disturbing authenticity, making the supernatural retribution feel all the more justified.

 The narrative takes a sudden and unexpected turn in its climax, with an abrupt WTF moment that shifts the story into a surreal, almost dreamlike horror. This twist may not sit well with everyone, but it reinforces the film’s theme that religious fervor can lead to madness and destruction. The ending is equally unsettling, leaving viewers with a sense of unease that palpable.

 “The Exorcism of Saint Patrick” is a highly disturbing film that tackles a painful and personal issue with thoughtfulness and intensity. It reminds us that the most frightening monsters are often those who wear the mask of piety and morality. The story is satisfying in its condemnation of these real-world horrors, though it does so in a way that feels both surreal and devastatingly real.

By: Louisa Moore