[Overlook] ‘The Summoned’ review: Modern take on classic horror

The Summoned is a horror movie that takes a classic tale and puts it in today’s world. Elijah (J. Quenton Johnson) and his girlfriend Lyn (Emma Fitzpatrick) are invited to an exclusive self-help retreat. The two want to work at improving their relationship. After arrival, they meet two other people who are there looking to better their lives. While there, he learns the dark truth about the past.

Stories about a deal with the devil are some of the most repeated. They have been passed down for generations and made their way into cinema long ago. Usually, they are meant to teach a lesson. A Faustian bargain is a part of The Summoned but it is more about mystery and scares than a lesson. To this end, there are plenty of quick cuts and mysterious visions.

In one of the more surprising aspects of the film, the rewards received from the deal are actually downplayed. What makes things more confusing is even the least successful person is still a small business owner. The ones who have done better in life are famous, but it never feels like “sold your soul to the Devil” fame. The foreshadowing and storytelling are much better. It is interesting to watch the characters play their parts, and though there is one decision from Elijah that completely goes against character (the choice is waved away when someone simply states, “We are good at our jobs.”), it is engaging watching them all interact.

There are some genuinely funny moments. When Tara (Angela Gulner) is first introduced, it seems like she is going to be just another vapid social media influencer. Her presence is to make a comment on the shallowness of today’s clickbait culture. As it turns out, there is much more to the her. Gulner puts on a great performance and Tara is a highlight of The Summoned.

There is a tendency to fall into the tropes of the genre but it can be forgiven due to the nature of the story. The twist heavy final moments can get a little infuriating, however. That being said, it will keep the audience guessing the entire time. In the end, The Summoned has fun with a familiar premise.

The Overlook Film Festival takes place in New Orleans from June 2 – June 5