Sydney Sweeney's 'Immaculate' sparks controversy and dark critiques

The horror film "Immaculate" continues to stir emotions, even though more than a month has passed since its premiere. It has already moved from cinemas to the internet, and there's no shortage of disappointed online comments.

"Immaculate" is one of the latest films featuring Sydney Sweeney. Her name was expected to draw many horror fans to cinemas. After all, the "Euphoria" actress is currently a hot name in Hollywood, and more and more new productions are featuring her. The additional lure was the story of the titular "Immaculate." This religious horror film tells the story of a nun named Cecilia who ends up in an Italian convent. When she discovers she is pregnant and the doctor confirms an immaculate conception, the convent starts talking about a miracle. However, over time, the heroine notices that her pregnancy is far from ordinary.

The film had everything to ensure success: a big star, a controversial story, and some internet legends about viewers vomiting during the screening. Moreover, the film outraged the American right wing. "Devilish, blasphemous, pure evil, and blatantly offensive. It's profane and has a third act that spits in the face of everything sacred. Simply... evil," wrote outraged conservatives. There were also pre-release tickets for $6.66, Sweeney reading drastic Bible passages, pregnancy test gadgets with crosses, and nuns at the movie premiere covering their faces with red cloth.

"Immaculate" has already ended its theatrical run. Now, it's time for streaming platforms and VOD services.

Internet users watched the film and then shared critical comments that reached the director, Michael Mohan. As seen in clips taken during the screening, the copy that went streaming is so dark that, at times, nothing is visible. "'Immaculate' is comically dark. I'm watching this in a dimly lit room in the evening and can barely see what's happening on the screen. Why would anyone do this intentionally?" wrote one internet user. There are several similar posts.

The director responds: "This was absolutely not done intentionally. We have no control over the compression specs of each platform. It's a real problem that truly bums me out." He also mentioned the platform where, in his opinion, the image is closest to what he wanted to achieve.

Such frames from the film circulating online do not help in promoting "Immaculate." And it's worth noting that despite the commotion about the production on the American right, the film did not make a big splash in cinemas. Although the budget was only $9 million, and the money was recouped, the production only grossed $23 million. Not much.