Trigger warnings for abuse, violence, pedophilia, suicide in this film.
In this edition of Netflix Originals going for the period piece-nostalgia for the post-2000 world, non-American actors seem to be just as good at, if not better than, the southern American accent that is a staple in this film. It follows the likes of Stranger Things and The Umbrella Academy in going back in time to an America that is just as corrupt as it is today. As the film develops, it becomes more and more obvious that it is based on a book, with its intertwining storyline and steady, consistent pace.
The southern accent is hard to decipher sometimes and several of the shots will leave you squirming or uncomfortable, but if you enjoy stories about rural, religious America in the 50s to 70s then this film will be right up your street. Robert Pattinson gives a convincing performance of a preacher who abuses his power to coerce young girls into sleeping with him. His accent is almost a caricature but he really demonstrates the manipulation of Christianity on its followers.
Tom Holland shows that he can do dark and brooding as well as a friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man in this non-franchise movie. Bill Skarsgård’s performance is also a delight to watch. There are dark themes of sacrifice, religion, and violence in this examination of family and small town affairs. It is fantastic if you feel like watching two hours of doom and gloom, and want to see some ‘serious’ acting.
‘The Devil All the Time’ is available to stream on Netflix.
Pep Reviews 