'The Demon Disorder' Reviews: "this is the latest demonstration of the affinity Australian filmmakers have for horror"

 

Photo by Thibault Penin on Unsplash

        On September 6, 2024, Shudder released 'The Demon Disorder', which has earned predominantly positive reviews from critics. In the film, "Graham is a man haunted by his past since the death of his father and the estrangement from his two brothers. Jake, his middle brother, contacts Graham claiming that something is horribly wrong. Phillip, their younger brother, is possessed by their deceased father. Graham reluctantly agrees to go and see for himself. With the three brothers back together, they soon realize they are unprepared for the forces against them. With Graham forced to accept that their younger brother is indeed possessed, they soon learn that the sins of their past will not stay hidden. But how do you defeat a presence that knows you inside and out? An anger so powerful it refuses to stay dead? A rage that wants revenge on the sons that murdered him...." The ensemble cast includes Dirk Hunter, Charles Cottier, John Noble, Tobie Webster, and Christian Willis. Read the full review round-up below.

        Hope Madden of MaddWolf praises the film, stating, "Boyle’s film boasts three different globulous monsters—nasty beasties that make you want to reach for the disinfectant." Continuing, "Possession film/body horror/creature feature is an enticing combination. In truth, the three don’t really fit that well together here. Eliminating the Christian symbolism might have streamlined this meandering script, but a lack of depth in the storytelling would still have shown its ugly, blobby, viscous face. The monsters are cool, though. But Boyle—who’s built a career on makeup design and creature FX—plays to his strengths and delivers a fun, DIY creature feature while he’s at it."

       Jim Schembri of jimschembri.com notes, "A straight-faced, proficiently mounted horror piece made with the cherished Ozploitation spirit, the lark is peppered with first-class practical effects and plenty of quality “ick” moments." Adding, "Featuring two lovably dedicated cops, this is the latest demonstration of the affinity Australian filmmakers have for horror. Very well done."

       Stephanie Malone of Morbidly Beautiful says, "A visceral ride that serves up a grotesque feast of jaw-dropping practical effects and emotional depth, it breathes new life into the often-tired possession subgenre by subverting several common tropes." 

       Louisa Moore of Screen Zealots writes, "A mixed bag, this film features excellent performances, strong production values, and an evocative sense of place, but it’s ultimately let down by a story that's burdened with a heavy-handed use of allegory and symbolism." Concluding, "The performances are solid across the board, with standout work from the lead actors. Willis is terrific as Graham, a man on the brink, struggling with the ghosts of his past and the weight of his family’s unresolved issues. The dynamic between the three brothers is believable and grounded, making their descent into horror all the more unsettling. The impressive and well-executed practical effects bring the story’s more gruesome aspects to life. The creature design that represents the manifestation of the brothers’ deceased father is suitably grotesque, adding a visceral edge to the film’s horror elements. The blood and gore are used effectively, though some may find it veers into territory that feels overly familiar for the genre."