‘Beautifully executed’ horror is ‘one of the best’ streaming on BBC | Films | Entertainment

If you’re on the hunt for your next film ahead of movie night, it might be time to buckle up for this horror if you’re ready to be rattled by its deeply disturbing storyline.

Released in 2024, this horror film is certain to “get under your skin”, as one viewer claims, after witnessing the gruesome scenes and psychological twists the cast take you through.

Starring American actress Sydney Sweeney, Immaculate is an American horror film centring on a young nun who is invited to join a prominent convent, only to uncover the terrifying secrets lurking within its walls.

The film follows Cecilia, played by Sweeney, who, after plunging into a frozen lake and being declared dead for a staggering seven minutes, became firmly convinced that God had spared her life. With a renewed sense of purpose, she embraces Christianity and later receives a personal invitation from Father Sal Tedeschi to join a convent in Italy.

Before long, she takes her vows and relocates to Italy, but events begin to take a sinister turn. Plagued by nightmares featuring hooded figures, Cecilia discovers she is pregnant, despite being a virgin.

Then, one night while wandering the convent corridors, she hears the agonising screams of a woman and, upon investigating, witnesses a hooded figure cutting out her tongue. Perhaps these mysterious figures are very much real – but what exactly are they doing to the women living in the convent, and could they be responsible for her pregnancy?

One review of the film on Rotten Tomatoes reads: “Religious horror has a unique way of getting under my skin. There’s something about the blend of faith, guilt, and supernatural terror that always sticks with me, and Immaculate delivers on all fronts.”

Another fan wrote: “One of the best horror films produced. Beautifully executed throughout the whole production; tickled my senses. Thank you! No feedback to give; speechless.”

While Sweeney commands the spotlight, she is joined on screen by Álvaro Morte, Benedetta Porcaroli, Dora Romano, Giorgio Colangeli, and Simona Tabasco. Nevertheless, it is the American actress’s portrayal that continues to draw viewers back, even those who weren’t previously amongst her admirers.

One viewer said: “SHOCKED by how good this turned out to be. First of all, I do not particularly like Sydney Sweeney and do not get how she became such a big deal. But I saw the reviews and decided to give it a shot. I was surprised at what a good job she did, how novel the plot was, the nuanced symbolism of the images, everything.”

In a similar vein, another added: “Known for her looks, this movie showcased that Sydney Sweeney does in fact have the acting chops!”

Some criticism levelled at the film is that it bears resemblance to The First Omen, which arrived in cinemas around the same time and similarly features religious themes while examining questions of female bodily autonomy. Horror fans, however, are content to appreciate both.

For those prepared to frighten themselves this film evening, the horror Immaculate, starring Sydney Sweeney, is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.