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Emily's avatar

Such an interesting question, and intensely personal. I have always been very sensitive to movies. There are quite a few I watched in my teens and 20’s that I really wish I had not seen — images I can’t get rid of. Particularly anything paranormal, demonic, witchy, etc. In fact, if I’m going to see a movie in the theaters that’s classified as a thriller, I usually try to arrive after the previews because I find them so upsetting. Even non-horror movies can get under my skin, and I finally had to quit watching Oscar contenders (generally a fun hobby) after more than one disturbing experience with a nihilistic dud.

So I’m with you on “follow your conscience / ask a trusted mentor for advice.” You were the one who encouraged me to go see Emily Rose all those years ago, and I found it super scary, but powerful and ultimately beautifully redemptive. I’m glad I saw it (but I also don’t want to see it again!)

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Glen Asbury's avatar

I am also normally not a fan of horror movies, but thanks to Rod’s write-up, I and my 19-year-old daughter went and saw “Nosferatu” on Sunday night. I found the cinematography highly compelling…Like Dreher said, the landscapes and lighting are a gothic wonder. But it is more explicit than I would feel comfortable with, on a regular basis.

All that to say this: My sweet and funny 19-year-old had, I felt, a worthy comment: “Take away the sexuality and it’s the same story as ‘The Exorcism of Emily Rose.’”

I couldn’t find much to argue with, there.

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