_**Drearily fighting… the devil all the time**_ In backwood towns of West Virginia and southern Ohio during the mid-60s several characters converge around a disillusioned orphan (Tom Holland) devoted to protecting those he loves. “The Devil All the Time” (2020) is a slow-burn Southern Gothic psychological drama with crime thrills in the mold of "Undertow" (2004) mixed with the dismal rural tone of, say, “Winter’s Bone” (2010), “Mud” (2012), “Joe” (2013) and “1922” (2017). The bleak story emphasizes the deep mysteries of life, like man’s brutality to fellow man, premature death, unanswered prayer, religious misbelief/error, justification of sin, corrupt authority figures, the downward spiral of a criminal lifestyle, divine justice (whether you perceive it or not), hope and, maybe, redemption. Some complain that it’s ultimately pointless, but it’s not. It may be meandering and ambiguous, but it’s not pointless. You just have to be braced for a slow drama, degenerate characters, lots o’ narration (by the author of the book), time jumps, convoluted storytelling and a muted emotional payoff. Another thing to consider is that the story doesn’t become compelling until the last 50-55 minutes. The movie doesn’t ridicule people who believe in Christianity, as some have criticized, but rather realistically shows how certain individuals with mental issues can misinterpret the Scriptures or the Spirit’s leading, as well as use their position to serve their carnal interests rather than serve people. There are weird and disturbing aspects that are gut-wrenching or disgusting, but the author based these things on real-life cases. It’s a quality production with convincing acting/costuming/sets/locations, but the snaky downbeat story isn’t for everyone. The film runs 2 hours, 16 minutes and was shot in Alabama (Anniston, Montevallo, Birmingham, Oak Mountain State Park and several other points in the area). GRADE: B-

<i>It's a prayer log...but it don't work too good.</I> First off this movie have good moments and dark moments, be ready for this roller coaster cause it'll be a ride. I love how they have the author of the book being the narrator for this movie. Saints becomes sinners and vice versa without even knowing it. Between the performance of the cast and how this whole story unfolds, it is a journey of evil, faith, religion, and power among all who are living in this rural area. I must say this is worth watching but man, it is soul wrecking darkness. Just be prepare for this watch. Pairing this with soul wrecking tough watches like <I>The Nightingale (2018) or GWEN (2018)</i> comes to mind.