Prey for the Devil (2022), directed by Daniel Stamm, is a supernatural horror film that plunges audiences into the world of exorcism, faith, and personal trauma. Set against a backdrop of rising global demonic possessions, the film follows a young nun, Sister Ann, as she challenges tradition and her own haunted past to confront evil head-on. With its blend of classic exorcism tropes, fresh twists, and a focus on female agency within the Church, Prey for the Devil offers a chilling, emotional journey through both the spiritual and psychological battlegrounds of possession.

In this review, we’ll explore the detailed plot, the film’s characters, underlying themes, box office performance, similar movies, reasons to watch, a conclusion, and frequently asked questions.

Detailed Plot Summary

The Rise in Possessions and the Exorcism School

The film opens with a disturbing surge in demonic possessions worldwide. In response, the Catholic Church reopens exorcism schools to train new priests in the Rite of Exorcism. Although women—especially nuns—are forbidden from performing exorcisms, Sister Ann (Jacqueline Byers), a compassionate and empathetic nun, finds herself drawn to the spiritual frontline. Her unique ability to connect with the possessed, rooted in her own traumatic past, catches the attention of Father Quinn (Colin Salmon), a senior priest and teacher at the exorcism school.

Sister Ann’s Calling and Early Trials

Sister Ann is initially relegated to nursing duties, but Father Quinn recognizes her gifts and advocates for her to attend exorcism classes, despite resistance from Church authorities and skepticism from her male peers. Ann’s presence in the classes is met with amusement and occasional hostility, but she perseveres, determined to help those afflicted by demonic forces.

During her training, Ann encounters Natalie, a ten-year-old girl believed to be possessed. Ann’s empathy allows her to reach Natalie in ways the priests cannot. She also befriends Father Dante (Christian Navarro), a fellow student whose own family is touched by possession.

Confronting the Past: The Demon Returns

Ann’s journey is haunted by memories of her mentally unstable mother, who suffered from what Ann now believes was demonic possession. The same demon that tormented her mother seems to be targeting Ann, manifesting through disturbing visions and harrowing encounters, most notably with an elderly, possessed patient who menaces her in a locked room.

Ann’s connection to Natalie deepens, and she becomes convinced that the demon possessing Natalie is the same one from her mother’s past. As she and Dante delve into the school’s secret archives, they discover a pattern: most “terminal cases” do not survive, with only one scarred woman ever released from the institute.

Forbidden Exorcisms and Tragedy

Father Dante reveals that his pregnant sister is showing signs of possession. Desperate, he asks Ann to help perform an unauthorized exorcism. The ritual appears successful, but the next day, Ann learns that Dante’s sister has died by suicide. Wracked with guilt and disillusioned by the Church’s response, Ann returns to her old convent, feeling defeated.

Natalie’s Relapse and the Shocking Revelation

Dante seeks Ann out again, this time with urgent news: Natalie, who had briefly recovered, has relapsed and is now considered a terminal case. Ann and Dante break into the school to attempt one final exorcism. During the confrontation, Ann discovers a devastating truth—Natalie is her biological daughter, whom she gave up for adoption as a teenager. The demon has exploited the anguish of abandonment to possess Natalie.

Ann’s love and determination allow her to drive the demon from Natalie, but not without cost. The demon transfers itself into Ann, dragging her into a pool of holy water. In a climactic spiritual struggle, Ann faces her own trauma and guilt, ultimately freeing herself from the demon’s grasp.

Aftermath and Ominous Future

The Church rewards Ann with an academic fellowship to the Vatican, acknowledging her courage and skill. However, as she departs in a cab, she realizes the driver is the same elderly man who harassed her under demonic influence. The film ends with Ann arming herself with a crucifix as the cab driver transforms, and a sinister woman watches from the street—suggesting that evil is never truly vanquished.

Character Analysis

Sister Ann (Jacqueline Byers)

Ann is the film’s emotional core—a woman shaped by trauma, driven by empathy, and determined to break barriers within the Church. Her journey is both spiritual and personal, as she confronts her past, her faith, and her role as a healer. Ann’s compassion for the possessed, especially Natalie, sets her apart from her peers and ultimately empowers her to face the demon.

Father Quinn (Colin Salmon)

Father Quinn is a mentor figure who recognizes Ann’s gifts and supports her unconventional path. He is pragmatic, compassionate, and willing to challenge Church tradition for the greater good.

Father Dante (Christian Navarro)

Dante is Ann’s ally and confidant. His personal stake in the battle against possession—his sister’s suffering—adds urgency and emotional weight to the story. His willingness to defy Church protocol highlights the desperation and complexity of confronting evil.

Natalie

Natalie is both a victim and a symbol of innocence corrupted. Her connection to Ann is the film’s emotional linchpin, and her struggle with possession is portrayed with both terror and vulnerability.

The Demon

The demon is a persistent, malevolent force that preys on guilt, trauma, and familial bonds. Its presence is felt throughout the film, manifesting in different forms and targeting Ann through her deepest fears.

Themes

Faith and Female Agency

The film explores the intersection of faith, institutional tradition, and gender. Ann’s journey challenges the Church’s patriarchal structures, highlighting the need for compassion and change in the face of suffering.

Trauma and Redemption

Ann’s past—her mother’s possession, her own abandonment of her daughter—fuels both her vulnerability and her strength. The film suggests that confronting and accepting one’s trauma is essential to overcoming evil.

The Nature of Evil

Evil in Prey for the Devil is both supernatural and psychological. The demon exploits human weakness, but it is love, empathy, and self-forgiveness that ultimately break its hold.

The Limits of Authority

The Church’s rules and reluctance to adapt are portrayed as both protective and restrictive. The film questions whether tradition should stand in the way of compassion and progress.

Box Office Collection

Prey for the Devil was released in theaters in October 2022. Despite mixed to negative reviews from critics, the film grossed approximately $44.7 million worldwide. Its box office performance reflects the enduring appeal of exorcism horror, even as audiences and critics noted its familiar tropes and modest innovations.

Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Prey for the Devil, you might also like:

• The Exorcist: The classic that defined the exorcism genre.

• The Rite: A story of faith, skepticism, and demonic possession within the Church.

• The Nun: Another horror film exploring nuns and supernatural evil.

• The Possession: A modern take on exorcism and family trauma.

• The Conjuring series: Supernatural horror with a focus on faith and family.

Why You Should Watch Prey for the Devil

• Fresh Perspective: The film centers on a female protagonist challenging tradition in a male-dominated institution.

• Emotional Depth: Ann’s personal journey adds layers of psychological horror to the supernatural scares.

• Classic Horror Elements: Fans of exorcism and possession stories will find familiar chills and jump scares.

• Timely Themes: The film addresses issues of trauma, forgiveness, and institutional change.

• Atmospheric Setting: The exorcism school and its dark secrets create a tense, immersive backdrop.

Conclusion

Prey for the Devil is a thoughtful, if imperfect, addition to the exorcism horror genre. It blends familiar scares with a unique focus on female agency, trauma, and the enduring struggle between faith and evil. While it may not reinvent the wheel, its emotional core and strong performances make it a compelling watch for horror fans and anyone interested in stories of resilience and redemption.

FAQs

Is Prey for the Devil based on a true story?

 No, it is a work of fiction inspired by classic exorcism tales.

 Is the film suitable for children?

The movie contains intense horror elements and is best suited for mature audiences.

What sets this film apart from other exorcism movies?

 Its focus on a female exorcist-in-training and the exploration of trauma and institutional sexism.

Does the film have a happy ending?

The ending is ambiguous, suggesting that the battle against evil is ongoing.

Who stars in the film?

Jacqueline Byers, Colin Salmon, Christian Navarro, and Virginia Madsen.

What is the main message of the film?

The film emphasizes the power of empathy, the importance of confronting trauma, and the need for change within rigid institutions.