Refuge

Refuge (2023): A Supernatural Thriller Rooted in Trauma and Tension

Directed by Renny Harlin and written by Ben Sztajnkrycer, Refuge (2023) is a supernatural thriller that blends war trauma with demonic possession in an ambitious attempt to elevate the traditional exorcism narrative. With elements of psychological horror, military drama, and spiritual mystery, the film offers a unique take on inner demons—both literal and figurative.

The story follows Sergeant Rick Pedroni, a soldier recently returned home from Afghanistan. After a disturbing encounter in a remote desert during his final mission, Rick comes back visibly changed—haunted, withdrawn, and increasingly unstable. His wife, Kate, struggles to connect with the man she once knew. As his behavior worsens, veering into violence and madness, Kate begins to suspect that something far darker than PTSD is at play. Desperate to save him, she seeks help not only from medical professionals but also from a local Muslim cleric, Imam Ibrahim, who believes Rick may be under the influence of a malevolent supernatural force.

Visually, Refuge evokes a gritty, stylized atmosphere. The film makes strong use of shadow and lighting, often drawing on a blue and amber color palette that enhances the eerie, claustrophobic mood. Harlin’s direction is focused and surprisingly restrained—relying more on tension, sound design, and mood than on overt jump scares. This choice supports the film’s slow-burning structure, which leans more toward psychological unease than straightforward horror.

The performances are one of the film’s strongest assets. Sophie Simnett shines as Kate, bringing vulnerability and strength to a role that demands emotional complexity. Her portrayal anchors the film and makes the escalating horror more impactful. Dave Bautista brings intensity and quiet menace to his role as Rick, while Raza Jaffrey adds a thoughtful, empathetic presence as Imam Ibrahim. Their performances give weight to the film’s exploration of belief, trauma, and redemption.

What sets Refuge apart is its thematic ambition. Rather than merely telling a possession story, it delves into the emotional toll of war, the invisible scars soldiers bring home, and the difficulty of healing from psychological wounds. The film uses supernatural elements as a metaphor for the burdens of trauma—drawing parallels between demonic invasion and the torment of untreated mental illness. In doing so, it opens space for discussions about faith, cultural understanding, and the human need for spiritual and emotional refuge.

However, the film is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the pacing uneven, especially in the second act, where the narrative momentarily loses momentum. The dialogue can occasionally feel stiff, and certain plot beats are predictable within the genre. Additionally, while the film introduces several intriguing ideas, not all are explored as deeply as they could be.

Despite its imperfections, Refuge stands out for its blend of character-driven drama and supernatural suspense. It is a thoughtful film that takes familiar horror tropes and reframes them through the lens of personal trauma and cultural perspective. For audiences seeking horror with emotional depth and a fresh angle, Refuge offers a compelling, atmospheric experience that lingers long after the credits roll.