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Dark, Lingering, And Not To Be Missed – In The Name Of God (FrightFest 2024)

A woman crucified to a wooden cross in In The Name Of God

In the Name of God is a curiously striking film with its European Premiere this year at Frightfest. Part horror, part crime thriller, all engaging, In the Name of God is a Swedish mystery by director and writer Ludvig Gür telling the tale of Theodor (Linus Wahlgren), the priest of an almost empty parish, who gains miraculous powers from his old mentor Jonas (Thomas Hanzon). Now with the ability to heal, Theo can save his wife Felicia (Lisa Henni) after she becomes seriously ill, and gains popularity in his church congregation as the story spreads. The only catch is that he must kill off sinners to be able to perform apparent miracles in the name of God. Meanwhile, an investigative journalist, Erik (Vilhelm Blomgren), is hot on Theo's heels as he believes the priest has created a cult based on what Erik believes are hoaxes rather than acts of God. As the web of lies, secrets, and murder unfurls, the situation becomes more desperate for everyone involved, and darker forces creep closer to the power and responsibility that Theo holds in his holy hands.

As far as Scandinavian horror and drama goes, the tone of In the Name of God is spot on, dark, grave, and lingering. Each scene is meticulously crafted to emote the audience, shifting their support from one character to another as it would seem that no one is sincerely good in the world, everyone carries ulterior motives. A true character study of what makes a person worthy of power where there are no winners, only those who suffer from the fallout of desperation and trauma. Right from the first act, the film kicks into gear, setting up the story and taking no prisoners along the way, and yet the narrative is so full of twists and turns, that it's almost impossible to predict where it's going to end up. Wahlgren shines as priest Theodor, a character with vulnerability, compassion and desperation, but it's fair to say that there isn't a single disappointing performance throughout.

For those seeking out a slow-burn film that rewards the viewer in abundance, In the Name of God is certainly the one to watch. The subtlety of every line spoken and choice made really ramps up to a fantastic final act, one that will leave audiences discussing their thoughts and theories for a long time regarding unanswered questions, which for once isn't a bad thing. The only criticism could be the lack of ferocity or shock in some of the bloodier scenes, with a lot of the violence being enacted quickly and without a large focus on the damage done, and yet it's questionable whether that would help or hinder the storytelling at this point. It's difficult to say much more about this film without dipping into spoiler territory, but In the Name of God looks to be one of the most talked about films from this year's lineup, truly one that shouldn't be missed.

In The Name Of God had its European premiere at FrightFest 2024 on Saturday, August 24.