Netflix UK has just added a wildly eccentric supernatural horror movie to its roster, featuring none other than a top-tier Hollywood star. This deliciously over-the-top entry into the exorcism genre has garnered a dedicated cult following and whispers of a sequel are already circulating.
Released in cinemas in 2023, the film received a mixed bag of critiques, but its outlandish concept and audacious set pieces are something viewers have to see to believe.
Russell Crowe takes on the role of Father Gabriele Amorth, also known as The Pope's Exorcist, who in the 1980s was tasked with purging Europe of demonic entities.
Drawing inspiration from purported true stories, Crowe's larger-than-life portrayal and the film's dark comedy resonated with horror aficionados.
The movie's staggering finale and hints at nearly 200 sequel ideas make it an unmissable addition to Netflix UK's streaming service, reports the Mirror.
Since its release almost two years ago, fans haven't stopped buzzing about the film, particularly scenes showing Father Amorth zipping through the Vatican on a Vespa.
"THE POPE'S EXORCIST (2023) stars Russell Crowe as a Vespa-riding, sledgehammer-wielding goofball of god," one fan exclaimed on X.
"He's charming and loveable, and thankfully the surrounding film isn't bad either, especially when it goes full 80s Italian horror for the wild, blood-drenched climax."
One viewer commented: "The only thing you need to know about THE POPE'S EXORCIST is that big ol Russell Crowe puts around in a teeny Vespa in *several* scenes, five stars no notes."
Another fan expressed on the film social media platform Letterboxd: "Some movies tease one sequel, this one teases 199. F*** it, as long as Russell Crowe has an Italian accent and a Vespa I'm there."
A different reviewer described the film as "pulpy, atmospheric, and fun."
"Plays out like a standard possession chiller in the opening reel but it eventually feels more like a mix of alternative Vatican Dan Brown type material and the Tomb Raider video games," they continued.
"The climax on this bad boy is absolutely nuts. Russell Crowe continues to elevate everything he's in, and here, a gigachad exorcist is ripe material for his brand of scenery chewing."
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"Russell Crowe is a boss riding that Vespa around Europe fighting demons," another user chimed in.
"He was hysterical. It's his resurgence era I think. This movie was a lot better than I was expecting. A lot of crazy fun."
While a final fan penned: "Completely bonkers, so over the top and crazy, pure popcorn style entertainment. I love this era of Russell Crowe going full ham, this movie is good, but it becomes great because of his fabulous performance, he's having a ball and you can really tell.
"His character was so good, I'd love more movies with this character, perhaps a franchise in the works? Bring it on, more camp Rusty on his lil Vespa and robes flapping in the wind."
Whether The Pope's Exorcist will get the 199 sequels fans are hoping for remains to be seen, but for now, viewers can add the original to their Netflix watchlist for a dose of campy, gory thrills.
The Pope’s Exorcist is available to stream on Netflix.
English (US) ·