Despite flaws, it is a good movie

Rating: 10/10 (18 April 2014)

I am surprised by how good it turned out to be. Originally, I gave it a 5.5, thinking that it was OK, but didn't really scare me that much and left me feeling disappointed. It went up to a 7 because I liked the story, atmosphere and it actually was scary thinking back on it. Also, it managed to be scary without a single jump scare. That alone is pretty impressive. Also, I liked how the characters were set up, and how the story of Alessa was revealed. I knew nothing about the storyline beforehand and was impressed by how they managed to pull all this off. My only complaints are that the film dragged on a bit long. 15 minutes could have easily been shaved off. Also, they put Pyramid Head there for no discernible purpose other than to have him there. Maybe I missed something. All in all, it is definitely a different kind of horror movie that critics have harshly received because they most likely aren't used to horror that isn't high intensity and jump scare laden. I appreciate the film and wish there were more like it, as long as it was edited better.
I liked how they relayed the story of Alessa because it allows for a complex narrative. When it is revealed that things are the way they are because Alessa was nearly killed in a ritual sacrifice, the dark part of her soul manifested and created alternate worlds through her hatred. The image of the nurse she blinded with her bloody eyes is one of the best shots in the film. She is burnt because her mother sought a chance to purify her from her existence without a known father. She was never protected from the bullying of her schoolmates, and all of this contributed to her hatred. However, there was a good part of her soul left, which took the form of Rose's daughter, Sharon. In the end, Dark Alessa enters Rose to enter the church and exact her revenge on the cult. This paragraph was to sum up the plot for those who complained about the convoluted plot.
If you were paying attention, it was fairly easy to follow. Plus, it had a nice atmosphere and great visuals, which helped the film to be memorable. If you don't have any other horror movies to watch, than this is memorable and likable, despite it's flaws. I would definitely like to see a remake with these issues fixed, and I will see the sequel. (At my own risk, maybe I'll enjoy it.)