Brothers Jake (Dirk Hunter) and Phillip (Charles Cottier) wake up one morning and make a terrible discovery about some animal stock on their farm. Adding to the disfigured livestock, Jake is also suspicious about how Phillip is behaving. Jake drives out to visit his brother Graham (Christian Willis) to ask him to return home and help. When Jake arrives at Graham’s workshop, it becomes clear that Graham has run away from something in their past. Graham prefers a quiet life where his past is long behind him.
Now, Jake and Graham, bound by blood and shared history, will unite again. Graham, a man who has tried to leave his past behind, will be forced to confront it again as he returns to their old home and works with Jake to understand what is happening to Phillip. Together, they must find a way to defeat the strange demon-like presence that has taken over Phillip’s soul, body, and mind just as it took over their father. Can the three brothers, united in their struggle, conquer and find freedom from this evil that has plagued their family for so long?
For those unaware, Steven Boyle, who also serves as a co-writer, made his directorial debut with this film. However, Boyle is no stranger to horror, with over thirty years of experience in special effects and a portfolio that includes many great Australian titles. With this film, Boyle takes on a new role as a director. He brings his wealth of experience and fresh perspective to the horror genre, promising a unique and engaging film experience that will leave you intrigued and wanting more.
I loved what each character brought to the screen with their performances. Throughout the story, the three brothers are forced to take on a demon-like presence that has lingered in their lives for some time. Struggling ever since his brother took off, Jake is now a heavy drinker. Graham seems confident but is forced to confront his past hurts and demons by returning home for the sake of his young brother. As for Phillip, well, somehow, he is unwell, and the film hinges on his mysterious possession and sickness, which has consumed his young body without warning or indication. While the characters and brothers differ in quirks and characteristics, it’s highly believable that these three are, in fact, brothers, given their performances. There are also moments of heartfelt drama and minor comedy along the way, especially when viewers see first-hand their life with their father, George (John Noble).
Apart from the entertaining performances, the visual effects are a delight. If you’re seeking a film filled with creepy creatures and fleshy monsters, The Demon Disorder does this wonderfully. There is an excellent use of makeup, costuming and practical effects, including the opening scene where Jake and Phillip make a haunting discovery in the backyard. The musical score by Peter Spierig was something else that I admired and enjoyed right from the opening. As for the plot, I can’t deny that the vagueness and mystery in the opening pulled at my curiosity. Once Graham returns home, the storyline and back story are well introduced and outlined. However, like the mysterious opening, some aspects still seemed unclear to me by the film’s ending. A repeat viewing provided a better understanding of some hidden meanings.
Overall, The Demon Disorder is an impressive Australian horror film for several reasons. It’s clever and grabs audiences early on. The special effects, costume and make-up are excellent and provide significant creepiness and unsettling moments. The performances are enjoyable and realistically display a great range of heartfelt moments and comedy. This is a terrific and outstanding achievement as a directorial debut from Steven Boyle. Without spoilers, the concept and hidden meaning will affect and strike differently among audiences, and I enjoyed the film even more on a second watch.
The Demon Disorder (2024) is available on Blu-ray starting September 4th!
7.6/10
20th August 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
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