Movie Review: Nefarious

           

I've read many books on exorcism and spiritual warfare over the years. To many people, it's a frightening and unusual topic to explore. I think that's largely because mainstream media and Hollywood often portray exorcism as something far more terrifying and sensational than what experienced exorcists actually describe.

I own the complete set of books by Fr. Jose Francisco Syquia, Director of the Office of Exorcism of the Archdiocese of Manila. I also have several books on spiritual warfare written by respected foreign exorcists such as Fr. Gabriele Amorth, Msgr. Stephen Rossetti, and Fr. Chad Ripperger. Reading their works has given me a deeper appreciation of the Church's teaching on spiritual warfare and the importance of relying on God's grace rather than living in fear.

The Philippines is also blessed to have Asia's first dedicated exorcism center—the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Liberation and Exorcism.

If you truly want a more realistic and faith-centered portrayal of exorcism, I highly recommend watching this film. It has also been recommended by well-known exorcists such as Fr. Winston Cabading, O.P., and Fr. Carlos Martins, C.C.

The story begins with the mysterious death of a psychiatrist. It follows Dr. James Martin, an atheist psychiatrist, who is tasked with evaluating Edward Wayne Brady, a convicted serial killer. His findings will determine whether Brady is legally insane—and whether he will be spared or sentenced to the electric chair. As the story unfolds, the film explores profound themes of demonic influence, faith, skepticism, and the enduring battle between good and evil. One scene from the movie that struck me and is one of the scene that you should be watch out for is when Dr. Martin asked how Brady got possessed by Nefarious, the devil answered it is a process involving bad choices, immoral acts and temptations. 

Whether one agrees with every aspect of the film or not, it reminds us that our greatest battle is not merely physical but also spiritual. In a world filled with confusion, violence, temptation, and moral darkness, we are called to remain vigilant, deepen our relationship with God, and, as St. Paul reminds us, "put on the whole armor of God" (Ephesians 6:11).

If you haven't watched this movie yet, I encourage you to give it a chance. In my opinion, it is one of the more thoughtful and grounded films on the subject, especially when compared with many Hollywood possession movies that focus primarily on horror and sensationalism. 

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✠ May our Lord Jesus Christ cover us with His Precious Blood, and may our Blessed Mother Mary protect us beneath her holy mantle.

St. Michael the Archangel, pray for us!