SHAMAN is a slow burn possession film that uses an Ecuadorian village as a backdrop for horror. Plenty of jump scares to keep the heart pumping along with well used sound and visuals. It was smart to offer this one to viewers on digital as well as in theaters. Many will welcome the streaming option rather than a drive to the cineplex. Horror fans will appreciate the folk lore and use of age old superstition. That element breaks the monotony of what has become a common template for demonic shenanigans.
Synopsis: A Missionary converting an Indigenous Community in a remote Ecuadorian volcano must come to terms with her own faith when her son is possessed by dark forces. | 1h 33m | Rated R for violent content/bloody images, some sexual content and brief drug material.
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Check out my interview with Sara Canning
Candice (Sara Canning) and her family are hard working missionaries at a small Ecuadorian village. They have a love for the Indigenous tribe there and have been welcomed there by the families. There is a small Catholic church and a local pastor (Alejandro Fajardo) that is home to the new converts that Candice ministers to. When Candice’s son Elliot (Jett Klyne) stumbles upon – and awakens – an age old spirit Elliot is taken over by it. Candice’s faith is shaken when it seems like prayer and her God are no match. A local Shaman (Humberto Morales) thinks he is the only one capable of breaking the curse and setting Elliot free.
Jett Klyne plays the role well and his zombie like stare is eerie. When you add in the vocal effects and makeup, it becomes quite terrifying. Possession movies are scary enough, but it seems like the creep factor is intensified when it involves a child. When Elliott first becomes overtaken Candice knows something isn’t right. Even when all around her people are chalking it up to a virus or some other ailment, she knows that her child is not right. Spolier alert. Mom’s always know.
Elliott certainly is not right and the power that has overtaken him makes sure to wreak as much havoc as possible, especially on those relying on faith and God. There are the scenes and dialogue you would expect in regards to the demon and the local priest. Demons love to get mouthy in the presence of godly people; bringing up their worst sins of the past. If possession was not annoying enough without having your sins thrown into your face.
This film is set apart by how it is all wrapped up. I will not spoil any of that for you, only to say that the unique take on the ending removes most of the predictability. As I mentioned, this one is a slow paced story with an indie vibe to it. The 90-minute run time helps to get you through it at the speed requited. Solid performances from Canning and Klyne are vital to the success. We need to be pulled into the terror and they both aide in that.
SHAMAN should hit the same whether on the big screen or your in-home streaming. If you are easily scared maybe see it in the daytime with plenty of buffer before you have to turn out the lights for the night.
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