Lupita Nyong’o in “Us,” Toni Collette in “Hereditary” and now Sydney Sweeney in “Immaculate.” These three actresses belong to a small group of modern horror performers who captivate audiences, refusing to let go. Although the horror genre often goes unnoticed during awards season, these talented individuals prove that their talent is undeniable. Sweeney, in particular, has consistently showcased her immense talent in films like the underseen drama “Clementine” and the minimalist thriller “Reality,” solidifying her status as one of the most gifted actors of her generation.
Sweeney first gained recognition for her role in the HBO series “Euphoria,” but it is in “Immaculate” that she truly shines, emerging as a brilliant screen presence with seemingly limitless potential. Her portrayal adds a level of power and potency to the horror narrative, elevating the film to new heights. “Immaculate” presents a darkly beautiful yet brutal story for Sweeney to masterfully navigate.
The film, which premiered at the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival, opens with a chilling and sinister scene. A woman attempts to escape a convent under the cover of darkness but is thwarted by a vengeful nun. The woman’s leg is gruesomely broken before she is buried alive, her cries for help echoing in the darkness. This haunting sequence sets the stage for the story to come.
We are then introduced to Cecilia (played by Sweeney), a young American expat seeking solace in the remote Italian countryside convent. Unbeknownst to Cecilia, her presence there is not a mere coincidence. Planning unravels as she is called in for questioning by the male leadership of the convent, only to discover that she has become pregnant despite remaining a virgin. This miraculous occurrence places her on a pedestal, revered as a miracle by the community. However, her life is forever changed as she becomes a vessel for the hopes, dreams, and prayers of those around her.
As the days pass, dark forces continue to loom in the shadows, while the oppressive atmosphere of the convent during daylight hours is equally chilling. Though surrounded by people, Cecilia feels trapped in captivity, with escape becoming an unattainable dream.
Directed by Michael Mohan and written by Andrew Lobel, “Immaculate” delivers a variety of distinct yet dynamic scares, expertly utilizing sudden cuts to amplify the nightmarish world Cecilia finds herself in. The film’s ability to build tension and dread, coupled with terrifying moments during confessions and unexpected bursts of violence, ensures an unsettling viewing experience.
The setting of the convent contributes to the film’s transformation from traditional horror to body horror. Every detail, from offhand conversations about scientific experiments to the haunting images of burns on a woman’s feet, signifies a deeper and more complex narrative. As Cecilia realizes her chosen role and the suffocating weight it carries, the once seemingly hopeful place of salvation cruelly turns into a chamber of immense suffering.
The film’s mastery lies in its ability to steadily darken and increase the stakes with each passing moment. The musical score by Will Bates and the cinematography by Elisha Christian perfectly complement the disturbing visuals, creating an atmosphere of unease and dread. A scene in a car opening up to a haunting field exemplifies Christian’s brilliance, as every shot feels intentionally trapped in time.
At the heart of it all is Sweeney, who carries the weight of the film on her shoulders. As both an actor and producer, Sweeney’s passion for the project shines through. She effortlessly captures the overwhelming dread and determination that define Cecilia’s journey. In the smaller moments, whether it’s the fear in her eyes or the quest to resist becoming a victim of the convent’s fanaticism, Sweeney’s performance resonates deeply.
Through mesmerizing shots and Sweeney’s phenomenal acting, the devastation of death becomes more palpable than life itself. Cecilia must confront the institution that aims to control her and her body,