Nerds That Geek Movie Review: ‘Seance’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Seance’.

How far are we willing to go? That’s a question that each and every one of us will eventually ask ourselves in regard to something important in our lives and with good reason. Because there will indeed come a point where we will be faced with quite the challenge, one that will determine whether or not we will live out our dreams in joy and harmony or if we will languish in a world that never quite suits us. And by asking ourselves that question, we come to discover in the pit of our souls, what we will be willing to do… to achieve that dream and obtain everything we know will make us happy and the vast majority of us out there… will answer that question in a simple manner. One that reminds that we will do whatever it takes to get what we want. 

But what is fascinating about that inspiring answer, is that we come to learn through our journey in life that sometimes, doing whatever it takes to get what we want simply isn’t as feasible or as simple as one might think. Because sometimes going the distance, includes sacrifices that we aren’t quite prepared to make, alongside changes to our lives that will upend our sense of comfort and if we aren’t ready for those kinds of surprises, then perhaps we aren’t quite ready to go the extra mile for what we want. Plus, in some extreme cases, doing whatever it takes, involves inflicting great harm upon others. An act that makes so many uncomfortable and unwilling to take the necessary steps needed to have it all. But some people… will indeed push the envelope to obtain whatever goal is in their minds and it just so happens that Shudder is now host to a film that explores the ugly that can come with just going for it in Seance. 

Now in this particular movie, we are transported to the Edelvine Academy at a time of great strife and transition. For this school for young women has been rocked by a stunning moment, in that, one of the students… named Kerrie, has died as the result of what appears to be an accident. But before anyone can properly grieve and move on, a new student named Camille Meadows arrives to take her place and that brings forth great friction and trouble. In part because Camille is tough-as-nails and has no qualms about teaching people that… but also because the majority of Kerrie’s friends are eager to explore the realm of the supernatural in the hopes of getting in touch with the friend, they might have harmed in the first place by toying with the afterlife. But as is often the case in this life, messing with things we don’t understand can bring about grave consequences, and that is a harsh lesson that all of these girls will learn when their séance with the other side seemingly awakens something with the walls of this storied academy. 

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Which at first glance, is a storyline that doesn’t really seem to be all that grounded in doing whatever it takes to get what we want. In fact, it is a story that seems akin to a traditional ghost story and for a great deal of the movie’s running time, it truly feels that way as well. Because at every single turn there are ghosts and shadows lurking about the Edelvine Academy and that in turn leads to some delightfully creepy moments in this story. The kind that truly play off of our fears of the unknown since we haven’t a clue if these young women have indeed broken through the wall that separates our world from the afterlife and angered something they shouldn’t have. Plus, this aspect of the film also produces some intense kills, the kind that are brutal and angry and catch the viewer off guard with their outright savagery. 
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But it is only a matter of time before the viewer comes to realize that nothing is quite what it seems in this tale and that is when the story shifts gears and really dives into the concept at hand. Which if course leads to some harrowing revelations. The kind that makes it clear that doing whatever it takes to get ahead not only comes at a price but can transform us into something far worse than we would ever like to be. A monster in some cases or a shell of the person we once were. Which in essence makes this motion picture a grand commentary on the importance of being honest in what we do and why chasing after what we want has to be done in a moral manner. A lesson that quite frankly, is surprising to find within the framework of a slasher horror film, but it is welcome none the less. Because there is nothing wrong with a story that works to teach others to hold tight to a fine moral core. 

However, you’ve likely noticed at this point that this review is keeping how exactly the movie gets its message across quite vague and there is good reason for that. Because to outright say how, would spoil a great deal for the viewer and ruin a fine experience. One that truly sucks you in with its eerie moments and reflections upon the savage nature of high school and the cruelty that teenagers impart. Which means that to truly bask in the wonder of this movie and its powerful message… you need to see it for yourself, and this writer absolutely hopes that you do. Because this horror film really is quite the pleasant surprise and is also filled to the brim with solid performances and impactful jump scares. So, if you’re looking for a fun ride that takes you on a surprise-laden journey, then log into Shudder when you have a little time and give this gem a look.

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