The Deliverance: Lee Daniels Meets The Exorcist in Netflix’s Gripping Thriller

In the realm of horror cinema, few films have left as indelible a mark as William Friedkin’s The Exorcist. Its chilling portrayal of demonic possession has influenced countless filmmakers, and now, Oscar-nominated director Lee Daniels takes a bold step into this territory with his latest Netflix thriller, The Deliverance. Starring Andra Day as a single mother grappling with both personal demons and supernatural forces, the film intertwines elements of horror with a poignant exploration of faith, family, and resilience.

A Vision Inspired by True Events

Daniels has long been captivated by the haunting true story of Latoya Ammons, a mother who claimed her children were tormented by malevolent spirits. After the success of his breakthrough film Precious, Daniels sought to bring Ammons‘ story to the screen. However, his mother, concerned about the potential dangers of delving into such dark themes, initially discouraged him from pursuing the project. “Spirits can jump on you, and I don’t want you to do the film,” she warned, reflecting a protective instinct that resonates deeply with many parents.

Despite this caution, Daniels could not shake the compelling narrative of Ammons’ experiences, which not only captivated believers but also turned skeptics into witnesses. This led him to create The Deliverance, a film that aims to resonate with audiences on a spiritual level rather than merely relying on jump scares.

A Faith-Based Thriller

In crafting The Deliverance, Daniels envisioned a film that transcends traditional horror tropes. He describes it as a “faith-based thriller,” designed to encourage viewers to connect with a higher power, regardless of their beliefs. “Whether it’s Buddha, whether it’s Allah, whether it’s Jesus Christ, whether it’s you learning to love yourself more, we need to do that so that we can find peace,” he explains. This thematic depth sets The Deliverance apart from typical possession films, inviting audiences to reflect on their own struggles and beliefs.

The Story Unfolds: A Family in Turmoil

The film opens with a fly infestation in the family’s home, a harbinger of the supernatural chaos to come. However, before diving into the horror, Daniels takes the time to develop the characters and their relationships. The audience is introduced to Ebony (Andra Day), a struggling mother battling alcoholism, and her three children, who are caught in the crossfire of their tumultuous home life. This focus on familial dysfunction is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for understanding the emotional stakes involved when the supernatural elements begin to manifest.

Daniels faced challenges in balancing the film’s horror aspects with its deeper themes. Netflix initially pushed for more conventional jump scares, but Daniels remained committed to a grounded narrative that explores the complexities of abuse and trauma within the family dynamic. “You think it’s Precious, but then it sort of makes a turn,” he notes, hinting at the film’s unexpected trajectory.

The Haunting Experiences

As the story progresses, Ebony’s youngest son, Andre (Anthony B. Jenkins), begins to exhibit signs of possession, followed by his siblings Nate (Caleb McLaughlin) and Shante (Demi Singleton). The film features harrowing scenes inspired by real-life events, including a chilling moment when Andre crawls up a hospital wall backward—an occurrence that was witnessed by multiple individuals in Ammons‘ life. Daniels emphasizes the authenticity of these experiences, stating, “You can’t make it up.”

The Struggle for Custody

A significant aspect of both Ammons‘ true story and The Deliverance is the involvement of child services. In real life, Ammons faced the heartbreaking reality of having her children taken away due to suspicions of abuse, despite being deemed of “sound mind.” This emotional turmoil is mirrored in the film, where Ebony fights against the system while simultaneously battling the demons haunting her family. Daniels, who has personal experience with child custody issues, poignantly captures the struggle of a mother fighting for her children amidst chaos.

A Unique Casting Choice

In a departure from the real-life narrative, Daniels cast Glenn Close as Alberta, Ebony’s mother. While the real Alberta was not white, Daniels sought to create a character that would resonate with a broader audience. “I like giving voice to people that don’t have a voice and a face to people don’t really see often,” he explains. This choice adds layers to the film, allowing for a nuanced exploration of familial relationships and redemption.

The Role of Deliverance Ministers

As the film progresses, Ebony turns to Rev. Bernice James (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor), a deliverance minister, for help. Unlike an exorcist, a deliverance minister focuses on cleansing a person or place of evil spirits. This distinction is crucial in the film, as it highlights the various approaches to confronting supernatural forces. Daniels notes that while the real-life Ammons consulted different types of healers, he was determined to portray a strong female figure in this role, showcasing the power of women in spiritual leadership.

Conclusion: A Journey of Faith and Resilience

The Deliverance is more than just a horror film; it is a profound exploration of faith, family, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable challenges. By blending elements of true horror with a heartfelt narrative, Lee Daniels invites audiences to confront their own demons—both personal and supernatural. As viewers engage with this gripping tale, they are reminded of the importance of connection, love, and the enduring power of faith in overcoming life’s darkest moments. Streaming now on Netflix, The Deliverance is a must-watch for those seeking a thought-provoking cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.