Exorcism still prompts fear into the soul of people.  With a exceptional opening weekend, The Exorcism of Emily Rose is the #1 movie in America. 

The anticipation for this movie was grand since it was the first of its kind.  Instead of the story concentrating its entire plot to the possession of the ill-fated character, played by new comer Jennifer Carpenter, Director, Scott Derrickson focuses the real battle in a court room instead of a church or bedroom.  What audiences are given is the present day trial of Father Moore, the priest who attempted but failed to exorcise the demons out of Emily and is tried for her death.  Through flashbacks, the viewers see the horror that Emily Rose dreadfully experienced.   

The movie is a winner because it didn't have to rely on special effects or cheap scares to grab the audience.  From the very beginning, the audience is drawn to the film through its emotional and distressing element.  A chill runs down your spin when we witness the events that first take place in Emily's dorm room with the rattling of her pens.  Even for a non believer, this movie is successful in placing fear into them as it does with Laura Linney, who plays the attorney for the defense.  Tom Wilkenson's portrayal of Father Moore is indeed great and convincing.  Even as his says, "Demon's exist whether you believe in them or not", that statement remains with the viewer even after leaving the theatre.  

This is movie is admirably good because it accomplishes its goal to capture the audience from the start and keep them on the edge of their seat filled with fear and anguish, the very darkness that horror films aim for.