Viewers have hailed the 2024 horror film Immaculate, starring Sydney Sweeney, as "one of the best horror films produced". The movie, which is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer, follows a young nun who uncovers terrifying secrets after joining a prestigious convent.
Plot and Premise
The American horror film centres on Cecilia, played by Sweeney, who, after drowning in a frozen lake and being pronounced dead for seven minutes, becomes convinced God rescued her. With a renewed sense of purpose, she turns to Christianity and later receives a special invitation from Father Sal Tedeschi to join a convent in Italy.
Before long, she takes her vows and joins them in Italy, but events spiral horribly out of control. After suffering nightmares featuring hooded figures, Cecilia discovers that she is pregnant, despite being a virgin.
Viewer Reactions
One review on Rotten Tomatoes reads: "Religious horror has a unique way of getting under my skin. There's something about the blend of faith, guilt, and supernatural terror that always sticks with me, and Immaculate delivers on all fronts."
Another viewer wrote: "One of the best horror films produced. Beautifully executed throughout the whole production; tickled my senses. Thank you! No feedback to give; speechless."
Cast and Criticism
Sweeney leads the cast, joined by Álvaro Morte, Benedetta Porcaroli, Dora Romano, Giorgio Colangeli, and Simona Tabasco. Audiences have praised Sweeney's performance, with one person saying: "SHOCKED by how good this turned out to be. First of all, I do not particularly like Sydney Sweeney and do not get how she became such a big deal. But I saw the reviews and decided to give it a shot. I was surprised at what a good job she did, how novel the plot was, the nuanced symbolism of the images, everything."
One criticism levelled at the film is that it bears resemblance to The First Omen, released around the same period and similarly featuring religious settings while exploring female bodily autonomy. Horror enthusiasts, however, are content to savour both storylines alongside one another.
For those prepared to give themselves a fright this movie night, Immaculate is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.
