Dog’s Movie House: “Prey For The Devil” Decent Entry Into Exorcism Films, But Can’t Hold A Candle To The Original!

“Prey For The Devil” has some interesting things going for it. The performances are quite good, with Byars being the standout as Ann. Something about her eyes in the way she conveys emotion just sold it for me. I also like the idea of a Church-approved training academy for exorcists, one that uses science and technology as well as the standard trappings of demon hunting. I like the way Salmon’s character includes demons and possessions into his life as natural as his breathing air. It gives “Prey For The Devil” an interesting slant on the exorcism sub-genre.

Unfortunately, “Prey For The Devil” falls victim to the standard trops of this type of film. You’ve got the usual exorcism playbook, with contorting bodies, kids climbing up the walls and talking in demonic tongues. You get the idea. The scares are okay, but this film relies far too much on jump scares rather than any real suspense. Some of the rules of the college are a tad dodgy at times as well.

That said, “Prey For The Devil” is a decent entry into the exorcism sub-genre of horror films. See this first, then check out “The Exorcist” to see how it’s really supposed to be done. In nearly fifty years, no one has ever come close to topping that movie. 2 1/2 Out Of 5 On Kendog’s Barkometer! So Sayeth The Kendog!

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