The Old Ways (2021)

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In the ending of "The Old Ways," Cristina confronts the demons of her past and the supernatural forces that have been haunting her. After a harrowing struggle, she ultimately embraces her heritage and the power within her, leading to a climactic confrontation. The film concludes with Cristina's transformation and a sense of resolution, but it leaves some questions lingering about the nature of her experiences.

As the film approaches its climax, Cristina, who has been held captive in a remote Mexican village, is subjected to a series of intense rituals by the local practitioners who believe she is possessed. The tension escalates as she fights against the restraints of her captors, who are determined to exorcise the evil they believe resides within her.

In a pivotal scene, Cristina is tied to a chair, her body wracked with pain as she experiences visions of her past, including traumatic memories that have shaped her life. The audience witnesses her internal struggle as she grapples with her identity and the fear of the darkness that seems to consume her. The villagers, particularly the shaman, are convinced that the only way to save her is to confront the demon they believe has taken hold of her.

As the rituals intensify, Cristina's emotional state shifts from fear to defiance. She begins to reclaim her strength, tapping into the very heritage that her captors are trying to exploit. In a moment of clarity, she realizes that the true battle is not just against the supernatural forces but also against her own inner demons. This realization empowers her, and she begins to fight back against her captors, both physically and spiritually.

The climax reaches its peak when Cristina, in a moment of catharsis, confronts the entity that has haunted her. This confrontation is visceral and raw, filled with both terror and a sense of liberation. As she embraces her past and the pain associated with it, she transforms the energy of the confrontation into a powerful force that allows her to break free from her captors.

In the final scenes, Cristina emerges from the ordeal changed. She stands in the village, a symbol of resilience and strength, having faced her fears and the darkness within. The villagers, who once sought to exorcise her, now look upon her with a mix of reverence and fear, acknowledging her power.

The film concludes with Cristina walking away from the village, her fate uncertain but filled with a newfound sense of purpose. The audience is left with the impression that while she has faced the darkness, she has also embraced her identity and the complexities of her heritage. The final shot lingers on her face, reflecting a mixture of determination and the weight of her experiences, suggesting that her journey is far from over.

In summary, Cristina's fate is one of transformation and empowerment, while the villagers are left to grapple with the consequences of their actions. The film closes on a note of ambiguity, inviting viewers to reflect on the themes of identity, heritage, and the struggle against both internal and external demons.

The movie "The Old Ways" does not have a post-credit scene. The film concludes its narrative without any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The story wraps up with a focus on the main character, Cristina, and her harrowing experiences, leaving the audience with a sense of closure regarding her journey and the themes of possession and cultural identity explored throughout the film.

Cristina, a journalist of Mexican descent, travels to her hometown in Veracruz to reconnect with her roots. However, she is captured by a group of locals who believe she is possessed by a demon. They tie her up and begin a series of rituals to exorcise the supposed evil spirit from her, leading to intense physical and psychological torment.

Cristina's relationship with her mother, who is deeply rooted in traditional beliefs, plays a crucial role in the narrative. As Cristina undergoes her harrowing experience, flashbacks reveal her mother's struggles with mental health and the cultural pressures she faced. This connection highlights Cristina's internal conflict between her modern beliefs and her heritage, ultimately shaping her understanding of her identity.

Miranda, a local woman who initially appears to be an ally, becomes a complex figure in Cristina's journey. She is both a captor and a guide, as she believes in the necessity of the exorcism. Miranda's motivations stem from her own traumatic past, and her interactions with Cristina reveal the deep-seated fears and beliefs that drive the community's actions.

During Cristina's exorcism, the locals perform several key rituals that include chanting, the use of sacred herbs, and physical restraints. These rituals are steeped in local folklore and are intended to drive out the demon they believe has taken hold of Cristina. The intensity of these rituals escalates as Cristina's resistance grows, leading to a visceral confrontation between her and the beliefs of the community.

As Cristina endures the exorcism, her perception of her identity shifts dramatically. Initially, she views herself as a modern woman disconnected from her cultural roots. However, through the traumatic experiences and the revelations about her family's history, she begins to confront her heritage and the complexities of her identity. This evolution is marked by moments of vulnerability, anger, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of her place within her culture.

"The Old Ways" is not considered family-friendly due to its intense themes and graphic content. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects that may affect children or sensitive viewers:

1. Horror Elements: The film contains supernatural horror elements that may be frightening, including scenes of possession and rituals.

2. Violence: There are instances of physical violence, including struggles and confrontations that can be graphic and unsettling.

3. Blood and Gore: The film features scenes with blood and gore, particularly during the rituals and moments of possession.

4. Psychological Distress: Characters experience intense psychological trauma, fear, and emotional distress, which may be disturbing to some viewers.

5. Themes of Witchcraft and Possession: The exploration of witchcraft, curses, and demonic possession may be unsettling for those sensitive to such themes.

6. Language: The film includes strong language that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

These elements contribute to a tense and unsettling atmosphere throughout the film, making it more appropriate for mature audiences.