“La Ermita,” directed by Carlota Pereda, is a Spanish horror film released on November 17, 2023. With a runtime that delves into the eerie and mysterious, the movie attempts to weave a chilling tale of supernatural encounters and emotional struggles. Starring Belén Rueda, Maia Zaitegi, and Josean Bengoetxea, the film promises a haunting narrative centered around a young girl’s quest to communicate with a centuries-old spirit.

While the concept is intriguing, “La Ermita” has garnered mixed reviews, evident in its IMDb rating of 4.5/10. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the movie’s storyline, performances, direction, cinematography, strengths, and shortcomings to understand its impact on the horror genre.

Storyline Overview

At the heart of “La Ermita” lies the story of Emma, a curious and determined child who embarks on a journey to connect with the spirit of Uxoa, a girl trapped in a hermitage for centuries. The hermitage, shrouded in mystery and legends, becomes a focal point for Emma’s exploration.

Emma’s determination leads her to seek the help of Carol, a skeptical medium portrayed by Belén Rueda. Carol’s initial reluctance and disbelief contrast sharply with Emma’s unwavering resolve. As the duo delves deeper into the hermitage’s secrets, they uncover chilling truths about Uxoa’s tragic past and the forces that bind her spirit. The narrative blends elements of supernatural horror with emotional depth, as Emma’s journey becomes as much about self-discovery as it is about aiding a restless soul.

Direction and Cinematic Vision

Carlota Pereda, known for her ability to craft atmospheric tension, brings her unique vision to “La Ermita.” The film’s setting—a secluded hermitage surrounded by desolate landscapes—adds an air of isolation and foreboding. Pereda uses this backdrop effectively, creating an environment that feels both haunting and claustrophobic.

However, the pacing of the film emerges as a point of contention. While the slow build-up aims to create suspense, it often veers into sluggishness, testing the audience’s patience. Key moments of tension are interspersed with lengthy sequences that could have been more concise. This uneven pacing detracts from the overall impact of the horror elements.

Performances

The cast delivers commendable performances, elevating the material they’re given:

• Belén Rueda as Carol: A veteran of the horror genre, Rueda brings gravitas to the role of a skeptical medium. Her portrayal of Carol’s transformation—from a dismissive skeptic to a believer invested in Emma’s quest—is nuanced and compelling. Rueda’s presence adds credibility to the film, even in its weaker moments.
• Maia Zaitegi as Emma: Zaitegi’s performance as the determined young protagonist is heartfelt. She captures Emma’s innocence, bravery, and emotional vulnerability, making her a relatable anchor for the audience.
• Josean Bengoetxea: While his role is less prominent, Bengoetxea provides solid support, adding depth to the secondary narrative threads.

Despite the actors’ efforts, the script often limits the emotional resonance of their performances. Dialogue occasionally feels stilted, and character motivations lack sufficient exploration, leaving viewers wanting more depth.

Cinematography and Visual Effects

The visual presentation of “La Ermita” is one of its strongest aspects. The cinematography captures the eerie beauty of the hermitage and its surroundings, with dim lighting and desaturated tones enhancing the ominous atmosphere. The camera work skillfully uses tight angles and lingering shots to evoke unease.

Special effects, though sparingly used, are effective in portraying supernatural occurrences. The depiction of Uxoa’s spirit strikes a balance between eerie and tragic, avoiding clichéd jump scares in favor of a more haunting presence.

Strengths of the Film

• Atmospheric Setting: The hermitage and its desolate surroundings serve as a perfect setting for a ghost story, immersing viewers in a world of mystery and fear.
• Performance by Belén Rueda: Her portrayal of Carol adds depth and credibility to the narrative, anchoring the film’s emotional core.
• Unique Premise: The story of a young girl’s quest to help a trapped spirit stands out as a fresh take on the horror genre.
• Visual Storytelling: Strong cinematography and effective use of lighting create an immersive and haunting atmosphere.

Weaknesses of the Film

• Pacing Issues: The slow progression of the plot detracts from the suspense, making parts of the film feel drawn out and repetitive.
• Underdeveloped Characters: While the performances are strong, the characters lack sufficient backstory and depth, reducing the emotional impact of key moments.
• Predictable Plot Twists: The narrative relies on familiar horror tropes, leading to a lack of genuine surprises.
• Limited Exploration of Themes: Themes of grief, redemption, and belief are touched upon but not fully explored, leaving the story feeling incomplete.

Audience Reception

With an IMDb rating of 4.5/10, “La Ermita” has received mixed reactions from audiences. While some praise its atmospheric visuals and unique premise, others criticize its pacing and lack of originality. Horror enthusiasts seeking an emotionally charged ghost story may find elements to appreciate, but those looking for fast-paced scares or groundbreaking storytelling may be left disappointed.

Final Verdict

“La Ermita” is a film that shows promise but falls short of fully realizing its potential. Carlota Pereda’s direction and the cast’s performances, particularly Belén Rueda’s, provide a solid foundation. However, issues with pacing, character development, and reliance on familiar tropes prevent the film from standing out in the crowded horror genre.

For viewers who enjoy slow-burning, atmospheric horror with a touch of emotional depth, “La Ermita” may offer an engaging experience. However, for those seeking a more thrilling or innovative horror film, it might not leave a lasting impression.

Recommendation

If you’re intrigued by supernatural tales and appreciate atmospheric settings, “La Ermita” is worth a watch, particularly for Belén Rueda’s performance. Consider approaching the film with tempered expectations, as its strengths lie more in its ambiance than its narrative execution.

Conclusion

“La Ermita” attempts to blend supernatural horror with emotional storytelling, achieving mixed results. While it showcases moments of brilliance, particularly in its visuals and performances, it struggles with pacing and originality. As a result, it serves as a decent, if somewhat flawed, addition to the horror genre. Whether it becomes a memorable experience depends on the viewer’s taste and expectations.

Overall, “La Ermita” is a film that invites contemplation and discussion, even as it leaves some lingering questions unanswered.