Working from the foundation of a fairly stereotypical demonic possession story, The Offering (2023) exhibits engrossing production values, slick cinematography, and a series of smartly devised scares sure to catch even the most devoted horror aficionados off-guard.
With its richly hasidic idiosyncrasies and distinctly Jewish cultural cues, The Offering (2023) makes for a compelling watch. Yet, it's elevated beyond intriguing drama fare thanks to a convincing set design, silky-smooth cinematography, and a sprinkling of unexpected frights sure to evoke internal fear.
Though the story does stumble, on occasion, coming across as patchily incoherent at times, especially towards the final stretch, the spooky setting, creepy aesthetic, and eerie mythological themes more than compensate.
Elsewhere, expect some painstaking special effects to savor, which, while mostly computer-generated, appear convincingly creepy by design. Those seeking something supernatural alongside a serving of one of two standout frights could do far worse than The Offering (2023).
It doesn't reinvent the wheel of possession horror by any notable margin. But overall, The Offering (2023) might just satiate those seeking a well-produced supernatural story with some distinctive folklorish flavors.
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