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| the deliverance is true story |
In November 2011, Latoya Ammons, her mother, and her three children relocated to a quiet rental house in Gary, Indiana, only to encounter a series of unsettling events that would change their lives forever. Reports of mysterious footsteps in the basement, eerie shadows, and inexplicable wet boot prints in the living room set the stage for a chilling narrative. However, while the premise is intriguing, the execution leaves much to be desired.
From the outset, "The Deliverance" strives to capture the essence of horror, but it ultimately falls short. Critics argue that Lee Daniels' approach lacks the depth and intensity necessary to create a lasting impact. As one reviewer pointed out, there is a “good movie hidden away in The Deliverance,” but it is buried so deep that audiences only glimpse its potential through fleeting moments of tension. The film fails to deliver a coherent narrative, instead opting for clichés and familiar tropes that do little to engage viewers.
The film is anchored by a strong cast, including Andra Day as Ebony and Glenn Close as Alberta, both of whom bring their characters to life with dedication. However, even stellar performances cannot compensate for a lackluster script and direction. Glenn Close's portrayal of a mixed-race mother, although ambitious, is met with mixed reviews, as some critics argue that her performance does not resonate with the depth of the character. Critics have also noted the film's inconsistency, which detracts from the overall experience.
In its portrayal of horror, The Deliverance contrasts sharply with its predecessor, the classic film Deliverance, which explored themes of survival and the brutality of nature. While the original film created a powerful atmosphere filled with tension and ecological messages, The Deliverance seems to struggle with its identity. It attempts to evoke fear through supernatural elements but fails to weave a compelling story that resonates with audiences.
The title Deliverance holds significance in the context of the original film, where four protagonists embark on a canoeing trip to escape the stresses of modern life. However, The Deliverance does not effectively convey the origin or meaning of its title, leaving viewers disconnected from its intended message. Instead of exploring the characters’ journeys for liberation or salvation, the film appears to focus on shock value, ultimately detracting from any potential thematic depth.
One of the film's more contentious elements is its depiction of violence, including a controversial scene reminiscent of those found in horror cinema. While such scenes may aim to provoke thought, they often end up feeling gratuitous and detracting from the narrative’s emotional core. The shocking moments, such as the infamous “squeal like a pig” line from the original Deliverance, are included without context, leaving audiences questioning the motivations behind such actions.
While the film addresses serious themes, including racial dynamics and the complexities of fear, it struggles to create a compelling narrative arc. The supernatural elements, which could have offered a unique perspective on the horror genre, instead feel disjointed and unfocused. The underlying message about fear and trauma is lost in a maze of clichés, ultimately leaving viewers unsatisfied.
In conclusion, Latoya Ammons story presents an ambitious attempt to explore horror through the lens of a true story but falls short of its potential. With a talented cast and a compelling premise, the film had all the ingredients for success. However, it ultimately lacks the depth and execution needed to leave a lasting impression. As audiences navigate the landscape of modern horror, The Deliverance serves as a reminder of the importance of storytelling and the need for authenticity in the genre.
