Demonic

Demonic, directed by Neal Marshal, is a 2015 psychological horror-thriller film that delves into the complex and dark relationship between two mother and daughter figures. The movie takes viewers on a dark journey of family trauma, deception, and the unleashing of supernatural forces that threaten to destroy those who dare to confront the past. The film follows Dr. Kathryn McCullen, a successful psychologist played by Famke Janssen, who harbors a deep-seated secret. Kathryn's daughter, Emily, has been estranged from her family for years, but their rift runs much deeper than a simple family disagreement. As Kathryn's past catches up with her, it becomes clear that her daughter's departure was only the tip of the iceberg. The film opens with Kathryn returning home after a long absence, only to find Emily's apartment in disarray. It becomes apparent that Emily has been suffering from some kind of supernatural possession or psychological trauma, but Kathryn's initial dismissal of her concerns sets the tone for the rest of the film. As the days go by, strange occurrences start to plague Kathryn's life, and she becomes increasingly unhinged. Her daughter's erratic behavior, coupled with her own guilt-ridden past, serves as the catalyst for the chaos that unfolds. Emily's presence seems to be the trigger for the unleashing of malevolent spirits, which begin to wreak havoc on Kathryn's life. It's revealed that Kathryn and Emily's relationship has been marred by a decades-old rift, one that has its roots in a dark family secret. Kathryn's desperation to make amends and reconnect with her daughter serves as the backdrop for the exploration of the family's troubled past. Through a series of flashbacks, the audience is introduced to the traumatic events that have shaped Kathryn and Emily's relationship. It becomes clear that a deep-seated resentment has been festering between them, fueled by a dark family secret that has been shrouded in mystery for years. As the supernatural events escalate, it becomes clear that the demons Kathryn and Emily are dealing with are not just psychological but also supernatural in nature. The film's tension builds as Kathryn's grip on reality begins to slip, and she finds herself trapped in a desperate bid to reconnect with her daughter and exorcise the evil forces that are tearing them apart. However, as the story progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that the demons Kathryn and Emily are dealing with are a manifestation of their own dark emotions and unresolved trauma. The film's focus on the psychological aspects of horror creates a sense of unease and foreboding, making it increasingly difficult for the audience to distinguish between what's real and what's just Kathryn's fevered imagination. As the film hurtles towards its climax, Kathryn's world begins to unravel, and she's forced to confront the darkest aspects of her own psyche. The film's conclusion is a devastating blow, revealing that the rift between Kathryn and Emily has been irreparable for years. The female figures in the film are left shattered, and the film ends with an unsettling suggestion that the demons will continue to haunt Kathryn long after the screen fades to black. Demonic is a masterclass in psychological horror, weaving together complex themes of family trauma, guilt, and the darker aspects of human nature. The film's focus on the psychological aspects of horror creates a sense of unease and foreboding, making it an unmissable experience for fans of the genre. The film's exploration of the complex relationships between mothers and daughters serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the destructive power of unresolved trauma and guilt.