Devil-2010

Director John Erick Dowdle

Starring Chris Messina

Scott’s Review #523

Reviewed November 23, 2016

Grade: B

Devil (2010) is an enjoyable thriller/horror film deemed the first in a trilogy, though it is unknown if the subsequent films will see the light of day since this film was not a smash success at the box office nor was it critically acclaimed.

A fun fact is that the screenplay is based on a story written by respected director, M. Night Shyamalan.

The premise is delicious;  set in Philadelphia, a man suddenly jumps from a tall skyscraper to his death. We learn from a narrator that the devil takes many forms and makes his presence known by suicide.

Detective Bowden (Messina) is called to investigate the death.

Eventually, five people are stuck in an elevator and one is a killer, presumably the devil. The film is a whodunit of sorts and a tale of morality, good versus evil.

Parts of the film are a bit hokey and suspension of disbelief is certainly required, but Devil is also a decent, edge-of-your-seat thriller.

Being only rated PG-13, the film tones down the gore and the death in favor of lighter, tamer activity.

The revelation of the actual killer is surprising and rather enjoyable.