Sydney Sweeney's Diverse Acting Journey: A Review

Sydney Sweeney has taken on a variety of movie roles, ranging from the HBO drama "Reality" to the romantic comedy "Anyone But You" to the superhero film "Madame Web." She also portrayed a nun in the horror movie "Immaculate," which has a unique mix of odd, creepy, and campy elements, drawing inspiration visually from "The Nun" franchise and tonally from 1960s horror films.

"Immaculate" delves into deeper themes beneath its horror surface, exploring issues such as women's rights and patriarchal policies. The movie touches on how women have been driven to protest by dressing as characters from "The Handmaid's Tale," using horror as a platform to address real-world societal issues.

It's true, there's a lot of history attached to a movie that focuses on Sweeney for about 90 minutes - someone who seems to be all over social media these days. And it's no surprise that this film is making audiences feel uneasy during its opening weekend.

Another actor briefly seen in the film is Simona Tabasco, but her role in promoting the movie might be a bit misleading. She, like Sweeney, was also in a season of "The White Lotus." However, any similarities between the Italy in that show and the one in this movie are purely coincidental due to their geographical locations.

"Immaculate" is a film that combines Catholic rituals with horror, similar to "The Nun." Sweeney, who also produced the movie, plays Cecilia, a young American chosen to work at a convent that acts as a nursing home for elderly nuns.

Cecilia, still learning Italian, appears to bond with Father Sal (Álvaro Morte), particularly when she shares her tale of surviving a near-death incident as a child.

Strange occurrences start happening soon after, not exactly of the run-away-to-the-countryside type, but that's the challenge when creating these scenarios.

The plot revolves around a key religious idea, and as Cecilia faces worsening circumstances, her struggles are intensified by being a foreigner in a distant part of an unknown territory.

Sweeney does a great job leading the film, with director Michael Mohan and screenwriter Andrew Lobel adding moments that might make the audience chuckle uncomfortably rather than feel scared.

The only mention of Sweeney's impressive career as she takes on more movie roles alongside "Euphoria" comes early on, when a customs official in Italy comments to his friend in Italian, unaware that Cecilia can understand, that her decision to become a nun is seen as "a waste."

Adding another layer to Sweeney’s resume, "Immaculate" may not be a waste of time, but it may not have a long-lasting impact either. It is a small movie typically made when an actor is in high demand, but Sweeney should be cautious not to make it a habit.

"Immaculate" will premiere in US theaters on March 22 and is rated R.

Editor's P/S:

"Immaculate" is a captivating horror film that delves into profound themes of women's rights and patriarchal oppression. Sydney Sweeney's portrayal of Cecilia, a young American nun, is both haunting and relatable. The film's unique blend of Catholic rituals and unsettling imagery creates an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. While the film may not have a lasting impact, it is a commendable effort that showcases Sweeney's versatility as an actress.

The film's exploration of social issues adds a layer of depth to the horror genre. By drawing parallels between the oppression faced by women in the film and the real-world protests inspired by "The Handmaid's Tale," "Immaculate" invites viewers to confront the ongoing struggles for equality. The film's message is subtle yet powerful, reminding us of the importance of using art as a platform for social commentary.