It’s not a dream, it’s not reality.|Jul. 29, 2021|Canada|104 Min.|R
Genre: Adventure;Drama;Horror;Mystery;Thriller
Description: Six years after the poorly received “Chappie,” Neill Blomkamp returns with “Demonic,” a sci-fi/horror film created during the pandemic. Limited resources could have ignited his creativity, as seen with Ben Wheatley’s “In the Earth,” but unfortunately, “Demonic” falls short. The film feels hesitant, lacking confidence in its ideas and execution. From the filmmaking to the acting, everything seems uncertain, a far cry from the boldness of Blomkamp’s earlier works like “Elysium” and “District 9.” It’s a forgettable effort that pales in comparison to ambitious failures like “Chappie.”
The story begins with Carly, played by Carly Pope, experiencing a disturbing dream about her estranged mother, Angela, portrayed by Nathalie Boltt. Carly is contacted by an old ally, Martin, played by Chris William Martin, who reveals that Angela is in a coma. Despite their fractured relationship due to Angela’s violent past, Carly investigates and uncovers a sinister scheme. Two men, played by Michael J. Rogers and Terry Chen, have developed a method to enter the dreams of coma patients. They persuade Carly to enter her mother’s dreamscape, where she discovers dark secrets about her mother’s condition.
“Demonic” ultimately feels derivative and uninspired, failing to leave a lasting impression. The film’s hesitant approach and lack of originality make it a disappointing addition to Blomkamp’s body of work.
Cast director: Neill Blomkamp
Cast actor: Carly Pope, Nathalie Boltt, Chris William Martin, Michael J Rogers, Kandyse McClure, Terry Chen, Jason Tremblay, Quinton Boisclair, Andrea Agur, Mavourneen Varcoe-Ryan
Original name: Demonic