‘Nothing But the Blood’ Unmasks Religious Extremism
**Warning: this review may contain spoilers**
A journalist’s life is threatened when she investigates a church in her town. Nothing But the Blood‘s directed by Daniel Tucker. It explores religious superiority and the lasting effects of abuse.
Jessica (Rachel Hudson) is tired of writing about the local baseball team. She sets up an interview with the newly opened church, Emeth.
Emeth has a murky past with well-documented stories of oppression and violence. It’s ruled by a fiery pastor known only as ‘Father’.
Taking the reins on this story is poignant to Jessica who has suffered from psychological abuse in the past.
In a chance encounter, Jessica meets Thomas (Jordan O’Neal), one of Emeth founder’s sons. Thomas has a vastly different view of religion from his family.
Through this, Jessica finds a kinship with him. However, Jessica’s past returns with a vengeance and pulls Thomas into the fold.
Thomas and Jessica try to leave it all behind and start a family together. Yet, they realise you can’t run away from your past. Emeth becomes interconnected with Jessica’s past and future.
The story heavily plays on morality. It also dives into the ugly nature of hypocrisy. Although not married himself, Father implores his values on his followers. Of course, he doesn’t follow them himself.
Meanwhile, Seth, Jessica’s ex, continues to abuse while taking shelter within the church.
The film poignantly portrays the turmoil endured in a violent relationship. We see this with Katie, Jessica’s best friend, who’s dating Seth. Katie hides her bruises and puts on a smile in fear of retribution from Seth and the church.
Nothing But the Blood develops over three different timelines, showing seven years in the life of Jessica. Sadly, the quick jump through Jessica’s pregnancy causes pacing issues.
Furthermore, it makes it difficult for the audience to settle in the moment.
Also, Irrational decision making is a point of contention. Unfortunately, it creates an aggravating experience. For example, in the second interaction between the two, Jessica finds Thomas in the arms of another.
Despite this, Jessica quickly ignores her better judgement and accepts him into her life.
Furthermore, Jessica’s shown as fierce in her convictions. She constantly displays her disdain for Emeth and followers one minute. Then, suddenly she makes the decision to foster a child near it.
This particular choice refuses to stay true to what the audience knows about Jessica.
Daniel Tucker delivers a story that is gripping in its premise but fails to nail its execution. A series of illogical decisions stack up to leave an implausible story in its wake.
Nothing But the Blood is available on VOD everywhere.
