Plot Summary: The story centers on Gerry Fenn (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), a disgraced journalist who stumbles upon a small town where a young girl, Alice (Cricket Brown), claims to have been blessed with the ability to heal others after a visitation from the Virgin Mary. As Alice’s miraculous healings gain widespread attention, the town becomes a site of miraculous events and fervent faith. However, as Gerry investigates further, he uncovers a dark and sinister force behind the supposed miracles, leading to a series of terrifying and supernatural occurrences.

Strengths:

1. Atmospheric Tension: The film creates a strong sense of atmosphere and builds tension effectively. The rural setting, combined with eerie cinematography, helps to establish a foreboding mood that enhances the horror elements.
2. Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s Performance: Jeffrey Dean Morgan delivers a solid performance as Gerry Fenn. His portrayal of the skeptical journalist brings a grounded and somewhat cynical perspective to the film, which contrasts well with the more supernatural elements.
3. Creepy Imagery: “The Unholy” includes several unsettling and creepy scenes that are designed to evoke fear. The visual effects and practical makeup work contribute to the film’s chilling moments.
4. Exploration of Faith and Doubt: The film delves into themes of faith, skepticism, and the nature of miracles. It examines how people react to the extraordinary and the lengths they might go to in order to believe in something greater than themselves.

Weaknesses:

1. Predictable Plot: The film follows a somewhat formulaic horror narrative, and some of its plot twists and turns may feel predictable to seasoned horror fans. The storyline relies on familiar tropes and may not offer many surprises.
2. Character Development: The characters, aside from Gerry Fenn, are not deeply developed, which can make it difficult for viewers to become emotionally invested in their fates. This lack of depth can diminish the impact of the film’s more dramatic moments.
3. Pacing Issues: Some viewers might find the pacing uneven, with slow sections that could affect the overall suspense. The buildup to the more intense horror elements can feel drawn out at times.
4. Mixed Critical Reception: “The Unholy” received mixed reviews from critics. While some appreciated the atmosphere and performances, others found it lacking in originality and effective scares.

Overall:

“The Unholy” is a supernatural horror film that offers a mix of atmospheric tension and creepy imagery. While it features strong performances, particularly from Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and explores interesting themes related to faith and skepticism, it also struggles with predictability and character development. For fans of the genre looking for a film that combines religious themes with horror elements, it provides some effective scares but may not stand out as a groundbreaking entry in the genre.