David Gordon Green’s The Exorcist: Believer is not a total head-spinner, but it’s effectively spine-tingling, nonetheless. That is to say that this is a fine film, just not nearly as groundbreakingly great as its 1973 predecessor. The problem is that in all the years since The Exorcist kickstarted the possession film genre with a bang, an incalculable number of exorcist-type movies have come our way. And, if we’re being honest, not one has come seriously close to holding a candle to William Friedkin’s classic. But, many were able to introduce new and interesting concepts, characters and twists to the now-crowded field of religious horror offerings. The Exorcist: Believer, however, does not. It’s all very familiar territory, if not predictable. What it does do well, though, is provide a solid premise and tell a heartfelt (and coherent) whirlwind tale of spiritual terror. As for genuine frights – it has its moments, but nothing that’ll keep you up at night. The performances stand as a major highlight though. Leslie Odom Jr. is especially strong, while our possessed girls, Lidya Jewett and Olivia Marcum, hold up their end of the terrifyingly devilish bargain (thanks in part to some wonderfully demonic makeup work). As for Ellen Burstyn’s much publicized return, it’s certainly fun – while it lasts that is. Let’s just say it’s more than a bit anti-climactic. So, while not going to make a believer out of horror nay-sayers, the power of Christ compels you to at least give it a shot.