Netflix UK has just added a wildly eccentric supernatural horror movie to its roster, featuring none other than Hollywood heavyweight Russell Crowe.
The film, which is a gloriously over-the-top spin on exorcism tales, has garnered a dedicated cult following and whispers of a sequel are already circulating.
Released in cinemas back in 2023, the film received a mixed critical reception, yet its outlandish concept and audacious set pieces are something viewers have to see to believe.
In The Pope’s Exorcist, Crowe plays Father Gabriele Amorth during the 1980s, tasked with exorcising Europe’s demons.
Drawing inspiration from true stories, Crowe delivers a larger-than-life performance filled with dark humour that resonated with horror aficionados, reports the Mirror.
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The film’s staggering finale and hints at a treasure trove of nearly 200 sequel ideas make it an unmissable addition to Netflix UK’s streaming library.
Since its release almost two years ago, fans have been buzzing about the movie, particularly scenes showing Father Amorth zipping through the Vatican on a Vespa.
One fan expressed their excitement online: “THE POPE’S EXORCIST (2023) stars Russell Crowe as a Vespa-riding, sledgehammer-wielding goofball of god,” adding, “He’s charming and loveable, and thankfully the surrounding film isn’t bad either, especially when it goes full 80s Italian horror for the wild, blood-drenched climax.”
One person commented: “The only thing you need to know about THE POPE’S EXORCIST is that big ol Russell Crowe puts around in a teeny Vespa in *several* scenes, five stars no notes.”
A fan remarked on Letterboxd regarding the film: “Some movies tease one sequel, this one teases 199. F*** it, as long as Russell Crowe has an Italian accent and a Vespa I’m there.”
Another critic described the movie as “pulpy, atmospheric, and fun.”
They continued: “Plays out like a standard possession chiller in the opening reel but it eventually feels more like a mix of alternative Vatican Dan Brown type material and the Tomb Raider video games.
“The climax on this bad boy is absolutely nuts. Russell Crowe continues to elevate everything he’s in, and here, a gigachad exorcist is ripe material for his brand of scenery chewing.”
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“Russell Crowe is a boss riding that Vespa around Europe fighting demons,” said another viewer, praising his performance: “He was hysterical. It’s his resurgence era I think. This movie was a lot better than I was expecting. A lot of crazy fun.”
Finally, a fan enthused: “Completely bonkers, so over the top and crazy, pure popcorn style entertainment. I love this era of Russell Crowe going full ham, this movie is good, but it becomes great because of his fabulous performance, he’s having a ball and you can really tell.
“His character was so good, I’d love more movies with this character, perhaps a franchise in the works? Bring it on, more camp Rusty on his lil Vespa and robes flapping in the wind.”
Whether a franchise is on the horizon remains to be seen, but what’s certain for now is that The Pope’s Exorcist needs to be on your Netflix watchlist perfect for when you’re in the mood for something a little campy and unapologetically gory.
The Pope’s Exorcist is available to stream on Netflix.
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