The Overlook: Demon

(imdb.com)

It can be really hard for foreign horror films to break into American markets. Even after finding niche communities just as Under the Shadow and Goodnight Mommy did, foreign horror is a difficult pill for some to swallow. Between focusing on subtitles and still maintaining the scary atmosphere of the film, these movies are pulling double duty. But for those willing and able to multitask, there are numerous gems to be found. While last year's Japanese film, Train to Busan certainly deserves the recognition it receives, the quieter release of the Polish horror film. Demon should not be "overlooked."

Directed by Marcin Wrona (The Christening), Demon follows a young couple as they wed. Throughout the dreary and drunken reception, strange occurrences create for one of the most insane spirals from fun to glum in modern horror. Possessed by a dybbuk, groom Piotr, played by Itay Tiran (Lebanon) is the true star of the show, but his bride, Zaneta, played by Agniezska Zulewska (16.03), is equally stunning. The pair is flanked by a host of supporting actors playing family members and local village people.

Demon is a slow burn. It consistently bubbles like the muddy ground from which Piotr discovers a body. At varying times, it burns so slowly that viewers will feel lost figuring out what is really happening and what is only being seen and felt by Piotr, but ultimately, Demon trucks along toward a climactic ending. The moments that work best are those where Piotr breaks into his possession and those featuring Zaneta or her father's attempts to cover up the problematic night with additional booze. The drunken night makes for increasingly confused, but ultimately complacent guests who only propel the film forward.

Visually speaking, Demon is compelling. Faintly lit and consistently damp, the old farmhouse setting of the film is filled with shadows. The dank spaces, contrasted with that of the barn reception create the type of atmosphere other filmmakers should take note of.

It's hard to pick out many flaws in Demon. It's more simplistic approach to horror never escapes realism. Even when production gets out of hand or the acting gets a little ridiculous, the film relentlessly recaptures attention to it's strange and dark plot. There are moments of cultural relevance that create an almost educational customs experience for foreign viewers and while the language barrier may be a turn off to some, it's never truly distracting from the tone set.

Demon is the most nightmarish wedding witnessed. Imagine getting uncontrollable food poisoning on the day of your wedding and still choosing to carry on that is essentially the film's plot. Only, apart from the fever, things are much more sinister and for viewers looking for a truly creepy ride, Demon should settle their cravings.