🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Chuck Konzelman
- Genre: Horror, Thriller, Psychological Thriller
- Release year: 2023
- Runtime (length): 1h 37min
- IMDb rating: 6.4/10 (33K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 30%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A demon in a serial killer’s body tries to convince an atheist psychiatrist that he’s real so he can get the electric chair and cause maximum spiritual damage, while also low-key promoting conservative values.
🍿 Nefarious: Detailed Plot Synopsis
A Psychiatrist’s Dilemma
Dr. James Martin, an atheist psychiatrist, is called in to evaluate Edward Brady, a convicted serial killer on death row. Edward claims he is possessed by a demon named Nefarious. Martin is tasked with determining if Edward is sane enough to be executed. The previous psychiatrist, Dr. Alan Fischer, committed suicide after interviewing Edward, adding to the tension and mystery surrounding the case.

The Interview Begins
During the interview, Edward, or rather Nefarious, displays an unnerving knowledge of Martin’s personal life. He predicts Martin will commit three murders before the day is over. Martin dismisses these claims as the ramblings of a madman, but Nefarious’ insights into Martin’s past and current struggles begin to shake his skepticism. The demon challenges Martin’s worldview and forces him to confront uncomfortable truths about himself.

A Battle of Wills
The bulk of the film consists of a tense dialogue between Martin and Nefarious. Nefarious reveals his perspective on the war in Heaven and the goals of demons on Earth. He challenges Martin’s atheism and presents a disturbing view of the world’s moral decline. Martin struggles to maintain his professional detachment while battling his growing fear and self-doubt.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Nefarious (Sean Patrick Flanery): A powerful demon possessing a serial killer on death row, manipulating events to further his own agenda.
- Dr. James Martin (Jordan Belfi): An atheist psychiatrist tasked with evaluating a potentially demon-possessed inmate, leading him to confront his beliefs.
- Edward Brady (Sean Patrick Flanery): A serial killer on death row, who may or may not be possessed by a demon called Nefarious.
- Warden Tom Moss (Tom Ohmer): The prison warden overseeing Edward’s execution and Dr. Martin’s evaluation, concerned about manipulation.
- Glenn Beck (Glenn Beck): A talk show host who interviews Dr. Martin after the events, discussing the implications of the case.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Nefarious: “In the first moment of creation, our creation, long before what you call the ‘universe’ existed, we contemplated ourselves – our own being.” – Nefarious explains the origins and perspective of demons.
- Nefarious: “All hell is rejoicing.” – Said after Dr. Martin learns his girlfriend has had an abortion.
- Nefarious: “You’re a pompous sack of meat.” – Nefarious expresses his disdain for Martin’s atheism and perceived arrogance.
- Nefarious: “You should have accepted my offer.” – Spoken after Edward’s execution, just before Nefarious possesses Dr. Martin.
- Nefarious: “Mene tekel upharsin.” – Nefarious says this to Martin before Edward is executed.
💰Box Office
- Budget: None
- Domestic Gross: $5,433,685
- Worldwide Gross: $6,016,438
💥 Nefarious Reviews
Personal Review
I walked into ‘Nefarious’ expecting a horror movie, but it turned out to be more of a psychological thriller with some intense theological discussions. Sean Patrick Flanery’s performance as the demon was captivating, and it made me question the nature of good and evil. The dialogue-heavy approach might not be for everyone, but I appreciated the thought-provoking themes and the surprising ending. The Glenn Beck cameo was weird though.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of psychological thrillers”
- “Viewers interested in religious and spiritual themes”
- “Those who enjoy films that spark debate and discussion”
- “Those who appreciate strong acting performances, particularly Sean Patrick Flanery’s”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Disturbing themes of demonic possession”
- “Discussion of violence and murder”
- “Mature themes including abortion and euthanasia”
- “May be intense and unsettling for sensitive viewers”
Professional Reviews
- ScreenRant: “Nefarious is a thought-provoking film and more of a theological discussion than a horror flick, with an amazing performance from Sean Patrick Flanery, who portrays the demon with both wit and chilling intensity, but the movie ultimately gets too preachy for its own good.
- IMDB: “A slick trailer tricks you into thinking you’re going to watch an intriguing mystery thriller about a death row inmate who may or may not be crazy or possessed. The initial setup is legitimately interesting. Sean Patrick Flannery gives a good performance (the other lead not so much), and at least the lighting and camera work are ok.
Audience Reactions
Sean Patrick Flanery’s performance is absolutely phenomenal, delivering a truly chilling and convincing portrayal of demonic possession.: The movie sparks deep conversations about morality, faith, and the existence of good and evil in the world.
The movie effectively challenges conventional narratives and presents a unique perspective on cultural and societal issues.: Great acting, and the reviews here prove how “tolerant” liberals are…
Overall Consensus: A dialogue-driven thriller with strong performances, ‘Nefarious’ sparks debate about faith, morality, and the nature of evil, though its preachy elements and controversial themes may divide audiences.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Sean Patrick Flanery has stated that this is among the top three films he is most proud of making.”
- “The film is based on Steve Deace’s novel, ‘A Nefarious Plot’, and serves as a prequel to the book.”
- “The majority of the film takes place in one room, creating a stage play-like atmosphere.”
🖥️ How to Watch Nefarious?
Nefarious is available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable on-demand options. Physical copies on Blu-ray and DVD may also be available through major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Nefarious, you might like these similar films:
- The Exorcist (1973): A direct comparison due to its focus on demonic possession and a battle for a person’s soul.
- The Devil’s Advocate (1997): Thematic similarities in exploring the nature of evil and moral choices with supernatural undertones.
- The Rite (2011): Similar exploration of faith, doubt, and the reality of demonic possession within a modern context.
- Constantine (2005): A modern equivalent which deals with demons and the fight between good and evil.
- Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005): Direct comparison looking at the courtroom drama and horror surrounding demonic possession.
🛒 Nefarious Related Products
- A Nefarious Plot by Steve Deace: The original novel that inspired the movie, offering a deeper dive into the world and characters, and even more to ponder and explore.
- Ouija Board Classic Edition: The classic spirit board, said to open gateways to the other side – for those brave enough to delve into the unknown.
- Demon Tarot Deck: The art design of this is based on the many different demons described in lore. Includes a booklet to explain its purpose.
- The Exorcist [Blu-ray]: A classic horror movie exploring demonic possession. Offers a different perspective on the same themes.
🎧 Soundtrack
Nefarious features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
Nefarious is a fictional story, though it explores themes of demonic possession and spiritual warfare that are rooted in religious beliefs. It is based on the book ‘A Nefarious Plot’ by Steve Deace.
The film explores themes of good versus evil, free will, the existence of demons, and the moral state of society. It also touches on topics like atheism, abortion, and euthanasia, presenting a conservative Christian perspective.
Sean Patrick Flanery plays the dual role of Edward Brady, a convicted serial killer, and Nefarious, the demon possessing him. He delivers a powerful and captivating performance.
🔥 Bonus Content
A Real EXORCIST Reviews the Movie Nefarious | Fr. Carlos Martins
Ever wondered what a real exorcist thinks about ‘Nefarious’? Fr. Carlos Martins breaks down the movie and even shares some personal experiences related to the film’s production. His insights are fascinating!
“Nefarious” film: Directors reveal spiritual warfare that occurred during filming
The directors of ‘Nefarious’ reveal the strange and unsettling events that happened during the making of the film. From strange ailments to car accidents, you won’t believe what they went through! It’s wild!
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