The Deliverance (2024)

Lee Daniels’ The Deliverance (2024) is a chilling supernatural horror film that intertwines themes of faith, trauma, and redemption. Inspired by the real-life Ammons haunting case, the movie follows Ebony Jackson, a mother battling demonic forces threatening her family. With a compelling narrative and powerful performances, the film delves deep into the horrors of possession and the strength of maternal love.

Detailed Summary

The Jackson Family’s New Beginning

Ebony Jackson (Andra Day), along with her children Shante, Nate, and Dre, moves into a new home in Pittsburgh, seeking a fresh start. However, their hopes are quickly dashed as they encounter unsettling occurrences, including Dre exhibiting disturbing behaviors like speaking unknown languages and climbing walls. Ebony’s devout mother, Alberta (Glenn Close), senses a malevolent presence and places a crucifix in the home, only to be tragically killed by a possessed Dre.

Seeking Help and Facing Skepticism

Following Alberta’s death, Ebony’s children are taken into protective custody, and she undergoes a psychiatric evaluation. Child Protective Services agent Cynthia (Mo’Nique) becomes involved, initially skeptical of Ebony’s claims. However, after witnessing Dre’s supernatural abilities firsthand, Cynthia begins to believe that something sinister is at play.

The Deliverance Ritual

Desperate to save her children, Ebony turns to Reverend Bernice James (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor), who suggests a “deliverance” ritual—a spiritual cleansing distinct from a traditional exorcism. Together, they retrieve Dre from the hospital and return to the house to perform the ritual. During the ceremony, the demon, taking on various forms, including Alberta’s, confronts them. Bernice is ultimately killed, leaving Ebony to face the demon alone.

Movie Ending

In the film’s climax, Ebony descends into the basement, a symbolic representation of her subconscious and buried traumas. There, the demon manifests as a doppelgänger of Ebony, forcing her to confront her inner demons and past abuses. Drawing strength from her rekindled faith and love for her children, Ebony invokes the power of Christ, speaking in tongues and using holy anointing oil to combat the entity. Her unwavering belief ultimately banishes the demon back to hell, freeing her children from its grasp.

Six months later, with Cynthia’s support, Ebony regains custody of her children. The family relocates to Philadelphia, seeking a new beginning. Ebony reveals plans to reconcile with the children’s father, aiming to rebuild their family unit. The film concludes with a note that the haunted house remained vacant until its demolition in 2016, yet reports of paranormal activity persist in the area.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, The Deliverance does not feature any post-credits scenes. However, the film ends with real-life photographs of Latoya Ammons, the woman whose experiences inspired the story, adding a layer of authenticity and lingering unease.

Type of Movie

The Deliverance is a supernatural horror film that delves into themes of demonic possession, faith, and familial bonds. It combines psychological terror with spiritual elements, offering a narrative that is both haunting and emotionally resonant.

Cast

• Andra Day as Ebony Jackson
• Glenn Close as Alberta
• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Reverend Bernice James
• Mo’Nique as Cynthia
• Caleb McLaughlin as Nate Jackson
• Demi Singleton as Shante Jackson
• Anthony B. Jenkins as Andre Jackson

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Lucas Vidal, whose music underscores the film’s tense and eerie atmosphere, enhancing the emotional depth and horror elements throughout the narrative.

Filming Locations

The Deliverance was filmed in various locations that effectively convey the film’s ominous and claustrophobic setting. The choice of locations plays a crucial role in establishing the film’s unsettling mood, immersing viewers in the Jackson family’s harrowing experiences.

Awards and Nominations

As of now, The Deliverance has not received major awards or nominations. However, the film has garnered attention for its performances and its unique approach to the horror genre.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Director Lee Daniels aimed to create a horror film that emphasizes spiritual themes over traditional jump scares.
• Andra Day, a born-again Christian, brought personal insight into her portrayal of Ebony, particularly during scenes involving faith and deliverance.
• Glenn Close’s portrayal of Alberta includes a controversial scene that has sparked discussions online, showcasing her versatility and commitment to challenging roles.

Inspirations and References

The film is inspired by the real-life experiences of Latoya Ammons, who claimed that her family was afflicted by demonic possession in their Indiana home in 2011. This case, often referred to as the “200 Demons House,” involved reports of supernatural occurrences and attracted significant media attention.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There is no publicly available information regarding alternate endings or deleted scenes for The Deliverance. The film presents a cohesive narrative that concludes the story effectively.

Book Adaptations and Differences

While The Deliverance is not directly adapted from a book, it draws heavily from documented accounts of the Ammons haunting case. The film takes creative liberties to dramatize events for cinematic effect while maintaining the core elements of the real-life story.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The initial manifestation of Dre’s possession, including his unnatural behavior and physical feats.
• The tragic death of Alberta, marked by the burning crucifix and her confrontation with the possessed Dre.
• The intense deliverance ritual, culminating in Ebony’s solo battle against the demon in the basement.

Iconic Quotes

• Alberta (possessed): “I can smell your nappy p**sy.” (A shocking line that has garnered significant attention.)
• Reverend Bernice: “Words are useless without faith.”
• Ebony: “I tried to talk to God when I was younger… but nothing happened.”

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film’s title, The Deliverance, not only refers to the exorcism but also symbolizes Ebony’s personal journey towards redemption and faith.
• The basement serves as a metaphor for Ebony’s suppressed traumas and the darkness she must confront to save her family.
• The burning crucifix signifies the demon’s challenge to the family’s faith and the spiritual battle within the household.

Trivia

• The film marks a departure from traditional exorcism narratives by focusing on a mother’s personal faith as the driving force against evil.
• Director Lee Daniels intended the film to “scare you into believing in a higher power,” blending horror with spiritual themes.
• The real-life house that inspired the story was demolished in 2016, yet reports of paranormal activity in the area continue.

Why Watch?

The Deliverance offers a fresh take on the horror genre by intertwining supernatural elements with profound themes of faith, trauma, and maternal love. It’s a compelling narrative that challenges viewers to consider the power of belief and the strength found in confronting one’s inner demons.

Director’s Other Movies

• Precious (2009)
• The Butler (2013)
• The Paperboy (2012)
• Shadowboxer (2005)

Recommended Films for Fans

• The Exorcist (1973)
• The Conjuring (2013)
• Hereditary (2018)
• The Babadook (2014)
• The Amityville Horror (1979)