"The Deliverance" Struggles to Deliver: A Review

Lee Daniels’ latest film, “The Deliverance”, attempts to dive into the world of horror with a star-studded cast, including Andra Day, Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor. However, despite its notable lineup, the film falls short in many aspects, leaving audiences with more questions than satisfaction.

The film, loosely based on the true story of Latoya Ammons, who claimed her family was possessed by demons in Gary, Indiana, struggles to find its footing. Set in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2011, the story revolves around Ebony Jackson (played by Andra Day), a single mother of three who moves into a haunted house. The premise is intriguing, but the execution is lacking.

Performance Highlights and Missteps

While Andra Day and newcomer Anthony B. Jenkins give commendable performances, the film’s writing fails to support the talent on screen. Glenn Close’s portrayal of Alberta, Ebony’s mother, is puzzling, to say the least. Her character, complete with an unfortunate wig and questionable dialogue, feels more like a caricature than a real person. The decision to include this character, who doesn’t exist in the true story, adds little value to the plot and instead detracts from the film’s overall impact.

Mo’Nique’s role as Cynthia, a social worker, is another missed opportunity. Her character’s behavior is so outlandish that it borders on comedic, which is not the intended effect in a horror movie. The writing here, too, is a disservice to her talents.

A Plot That Leaves You Wanting

The film’s plot, filled with religious undertones and confusing flashbacks, fails to deliver the tension and horror one would expect. The narrative doesn’t hold up under scrutiny, with numerous plot holes and a lack of clarity around key story elements. The film's attempts at horror are underwhelming, with only a few scenes, such as a character climbing a wall backward, standing out.

The ending, which attempts to tie everything together with a hopeful resolution, feels forced and unsatisfying. The film’s religious framing, rather than adding depth, only contributes to the confusion.

Final Thoughts

Overall, “The Deliverance” is a film with potential that ultimately misses the mark. Despite its strong cast, the poor writing and direction prevent it from being the gripping horror film it could have been. Instead, it’s a disjointed narrative that leaves viewers more baffled than scared. While there are a few redeeming moments, they are not enough to save the film from its numerous flaws.