Academic Resources: Research Tools
-
Databases: Films Database
The Exorcism of Emily Rose
- Topics: medicine and treatment, science and religion - power relations
- Brief Summary: A young girl (Jennifer Carpenter) dies under the care of her parish priest (Tom Wilkinson). While attending college, Emily believed she became possessed. After medical care ceases to work, she turned to her faith. In the care of her priest she dies and he goes on trial for her death. He is represented by a career-minded and driven lawyer (Laura Linney) who does not believe in God. Thus is the story of Emily Rose, told by those in the trial and the priest who watched her through her possession.
- Date of Release: 2005
- Length: 119 minutes
- Where was it produced/filmed & in what language: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, English.
- Where to get it: www.amazon.com, www.netflix.com, or www.sonystyle.com
- Additional Comments: This film takes an honest and sophisticated look at the tensions between science and religion as it relates to medicine and healing. In the context of a jury trial, questions abound regarding the kinds of evidence being used in the discussion, and what is at stake for the individuals and institutions involved.
