Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning Review (7.2/10): Seoul's Demon-Fighting Trio Rises

This Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning review starts with a simple question: can a Korean animated action-horror film pack a whole legend into 86 minutes? Director Kim Dong-chul adapts a well-known title for the screen, and the result is brisk, atmospheric and a little crowded. Here is what to expect before you press play.

Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning Review: The Story So Far (No Spoilers)

The plot begins on the day the sky blazed, as a demonic uprising threatens to end the world as people know it. A monk and an excommunicated priest team up to protect a powerful young boy, who carries the hope of the next generation of magic. Dark forces close in fast, and the unlikely trio must face their own inner demons as well as the monsters outside.

The setup is clean and easy to follow, even if you have never met these characters before. The film calls itself "The Beginning", and it plays like an origin story. It sets up who these people are and why they matter, then moves on without much delay.

The film is written by Lee Dong-ha and its original Korean title is 퇴마록. Genre-wise, it sits between animated action and supernatural horror, so expect spectacle with some creepy moments.

What Works in Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning

The pacing is the main strength. At 86 minutes, the film has little time to waste, and it moves from one confrontation to the next without long lulls.

The central trio is also appealing. A disgraced priest, a monk and a gifted child make a good mix of temperaments, and the film gives each one a personal burden. The priest's past is the emotional hook, and it gives the action some weight.

A few other things stand out:

• A clear tone that mixes dread with fight scenes.

• A legend-style premise that feels bigger than the runtime.

• A distinctly Korean take on exorcism and spiritual warfare, with both Buddhist and Christian figures on screen.

If you like animation movie reviews that go beyond family fare, this one fits. It is rated R, and it earns that mood.

Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning Cast and Performances

The Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning cast is made up of voice actors. Choi Han voices Father Park, the excommunicated priest at the story's center. Nam Doh-hyeong plays Hyeon-am, Jung Yoo-jung voices Jun-hoo, and Kim Yeon-woo plays Seung-hee.

Hong Seung-hyo voices Monk Jang and Hwang Chang-yung voices Master Seo. The ensemble gives the film a solid emotional base, particularly in the quieter exchanges between the older characters and the boy.

Voice work in action animation can be uneven, but here the performances support the tone instead of fighting it. Father Park's weary, guilt-laden presence is the standout.

Where Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning Stumbles

The short runtime cuts both ways. Several characters and ideas get only a sketch, and viewers new to the franchise may want more background on the magic and its rules.

The story also leans on familiar supernatural beats: a chosen child, a dark mentor figure and a world-ending threat. Nothing here is a surprise, and the dramatic payoff may feel lighter than the setup promises.

The horror side is another sticking point. It sets a mood, but the film is more action-driven than scary, so hardcore horror fans may want sharper frights. If you want more genre options, browse our horror movie reviews.

Is Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning Worth Watching?

Yes, if you like animated action with a dark supernatural streak. The film earns a score of 7.2/10 from us for its pace, its likable leads and its confident handling of a large legend in a small package.

It will not reinvent the genre, and it asks for some patience with a rushed setup. But for an evening watch, it delivers enough atmosphere and energy to justify the time. Audience reception is also positive, with a 7.2/10 average on TMDB from 40 votes, though that is a small sample.

For more of the same, our action movie reviews page has plenty of options.

Who Will Enjoy Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning

• Fans of adult-oriented animation and Korean supernatural stories.

• Viewers who like monster-fighting action with a spiritual twist.

• Anyone who wants a short, fast film instead of a long epic.