Film: The Deliverance   (Netflix)
Cast: Andra Day, Glenn Close, Anthony B. Jenkins, Mo’Nique, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Caleb McLaughlin, Demi Singleton, Anthony B. Jenkins 
Director: Lee Daniels
Rating: 2/5
Runtime: 112 min

“The Deliverance” is based on the real-life story of LaToya Ammons. She had claimed that demons were responsible for the violent behaviors within her household and it took an exorcist to cleanse the home of its unholy mess. Aiming to be the Black equivalent of ‘The Exorcist’ this film is neither scary nor thrilling. It’s just a whole lot of drama about a dysfunctional family whose tryst with the devil pushes them straight into the protective hands of God. Lee Daniels, best known for his Sundance hit ‘Precious’ tries his hand at horror with “The Deliverance” - but the result is neither becoming nor precious.

Set in 2011, this film follows the template set by ‘The Conjuring’ universe. Stripped of spookiness or nuance, the narrative goes perversely dramatic over a substance abusing single Mom’s efforts to stay afloat.