Immaculate is a 2024 American horror film directed by Michael Mohan and written by Andrew Lobel.
The film stars Sydney Sweeney, who also serves as a producer, alongside Álvaro Morte, Benedetta Porcaroli, Dora Romano, Giorgio Colangeli, and Simona Tabasco. The plot centers on Cecilia, a young novice who is invited to live at a picturesque convent in the Italian countryside. However, as she settles in, she begins to uncover the terrifying secrets that lurk beneath the convent's serene exterior.
The film premiered at the South by Southwest festival on March 12, 2024, and was released theatrically in the United States by Neon on March 22, 2024. With a runtime of 89 minutes, Immaculate has garnered mixed reviews from critics. It has grossed over $28 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $9 million, indicating a successful box office performance.
Development of Immaculate began in 2014, when Sweeney first auditioned for a role in the film. After her breakout role in Euphoria, she acquired the rights to the screenplay and collaborated with Mohan to bring the project to fruition. The film's production took place in and around Rome, with significant scenes filmed at notable locations such as Villa Parisi and the Doria Pamphilj Gallery.
Critics have noted that while Immaculate features some predictable jump scares, it effectively creates a tense atmosphere that enhances the horror elements. Sweeney's performance has been highlighted as a standout, showcasing her character's transformation from innocence to a more feral state as the story unfolds. The film's graphic content and exploration of dark themes related to the convent's secrets have also drawn attention, making it a noteworthy entry in the horror genre.