The Accursed (2022) Movie Script
1
-[ominous music playing]
-[thunder crashing]
[thunder rumbling]
And don't come inside
until the screaming starts.
[door creaking]
[door slams]
[fire crackling]
[beads rattling]
[thunder crashes]
[shutter clicks, camera whirs]
Sit.
Commune...
or curse?
Curse. [clears throat]
Payment first.
Blood now.
And...
what fate...
for the owner of this blood?
I want the devil himself
to take possession of her,
for both to be locked
in hell together, forever.
[woman chuckles harshly]
Well...
the devil himself
never takes possession.
He sends one of his legions.
A demon?
Mm-hmm.
And it will be
whenever he so chooses,
unless...
[chuckles]
What?
It'll cost double.
I'll get it, tonight.
As soon as we finish,
go to this person quickly.
She may be violently ill
and have supernatural strength.
You must take this knife
and wait for the point
of no return,
when the demon
has come too far.
How do I know when that is?
You'll see the demon's
three fingers
emerging from the mouth
of the accursed.
Carve a crucifix
into the flesh of the throat,
above the chest.
Are you ready
to gaze into hell?
Yes.
Mm.
Come and gaze at his blaze
of fire,
where winged embers rise
to kindling choir!
He is darkness.
He is whispers.
He is sweet
inside your heart.
He is heat.
He is smoke...
[gasping]
...in your throat.
[thunder crashing]
What now?
We wait for the devil
to relight his candle.
Watch close my face,
for the face of the accursed
will soon take mine
but for a moment.
He...
is real.
He...
is imagined.
He...
is stationed at
the seal.
Ahh...
[fly buzzing]
I...
I hear...
a fly.
[buzzing continues]
But I... I don't...
I don't see one.
[gasping]
[clattering noise]
Do... do you hear it?
[noise growing louder]
Only...
the accursed...
hears the fly!
[gasping, shrieking]
Where...
did you get...
the blood?!
Where did you get
this blood?!
My daughter bled you
while you slept, witch!
My name is Mary Lynn Crandon,
and this is
for my husband Thomas!
[shrieking]
[witch snarling]
[Mary] Sadie!
[snarling]
[groaning]
[shrieking]
[thunder crashing]
Next time we burn it down.
[thunder crashing]
[intense
symphonic music playing]
[music fades]
[birds singing]
Elly, you need me to stay?
No, you go. I'm fine.
Fine.
Let's go with that.
So, are you going
to stay in town awhile?
Uh... probably
until I sell this place.
I want to get back to Haiti,
they need volunteers.
Lots of junk to clear out,
keep me busy till then.
[laughs] True.
I can stop by tomorrow,
help you out.
You don't have to do that.
I want to.
I can bring wine,
like old times.
Great. Sounds good.
Hey, Beth?
Thank you
for coming to the service.
It means a lot.
See you tomorrow, El.
[contemplative music playing]
[water running]
[humming
"You Are My Baby Girl"]
[in distance]
You are my baby girl
And I'll always
love you
You'll be
my best friend
'Til the end
I'll never leave
You
When the night is cold
I'll be there
To warm you
Every dream you--
[telephone ringing]
Hello?
[Beth] Hello.
Hey, are you on your way now?
Um, are you in 1952?
Why am I always
having to find
a landline number
to call you on?
Like, there is such a thing
as cell phones.
I'm sorry,
I'm always losing it.
I've been cleaning nonstop.
Okay, well, since
you don't have a cell phone,
have you seen
your television set,
or is that too much
for you, too?
No. [laughs] Why?
Oh, shit.
The news, like,
it's pretty rotten.
What's going on?
They're cutting off
all foreign aid to Haiti.
I mean, no one is going
in or out, nobody.
Oh, shit.
Sorry.
[sighs]
So, I called my team leader.
He said
the State Department issued
a level 4 travel advisory.
Level 4, that's bad, right?
Right. It means I can't
get a flight back.
I mean, the worst part is
those people still need help,
and we're just abandoning them.
People need help
here, too, Elly.
We're having a blood drive
at St. Luke's tomorrow.
You could start with that.
Yeah, sign me up.
Really? Now, that is
the Elly I know.
How about we do just
one more of these big boxes
and then pop open
the Vin de Luxe,
-since this is boring.
-Okay.
Yes!
[woman] Elly.
Mrs. Dudley, hi.
I'm sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
It's nice of you to stop by.
I only came by to give you back
the spare key.
I...
I'm sorry I wasn't
able to make the service.
It's really all right,
don't worry about it.
Looks like you're busy.
Yeah, we are. [sighs]
[ominous music playing]
I was the one
who found your mother.
Mrs. Dudley,
do you want to come inside?
I wouldn't have gone inside
if I hadn't heard the music.
Hey, El, where are the boxes
from the attic?
Uh, check the kitchen.
I'm sorry... what music?
That old song she liked
to play, you know the one.
I was passing by on my way
to church when I heard it.
It was a record.
It should have been
skipping, but...
It just...
And I'll never leave--
I just... [sighing]
Mrs. Dudley, I'm so sorry.
You were always a really great
neighbor to us,
especially after my dad left.
Do you mean when he ran off
with that whore?
Why did you
run off on her, too, Elly?
She was sick.
She had nobody.
If you had been here,
I wouldn't have had
to go through that horror.
I'm sorry for what you saw,
but you have no right
to lecture me
about my choices.
Hey! Okay...
I think you'd better
go now, Mrs. Dudley.
I haven't slept for days!
I lie in bed at night.
I keep seeing her face!
[Elly] I can't believe
she slapped me.
No one would believe
that she slapped you.
She's right.
About what?
Maybe I should have been here.
Elly, you were here.
You stuck around.
[Elly] Yeah, until I didn't.
I hated my dad
after he left her.
Then I did the same thing.
Well, now, your dad walked out
on his wife and his daughter.
That is not at all
the same thing.
All you did was
go out of this town
and went and lived your life.
That's normal, that is healthy.
That is nothing
to feel guilty about.
[phone chimes]
Shoot, that's my ride.
Should I cancel?
No. No, you've got
an early start.
But I am gonna see you
at the blood drive
tomorrow, right?
-Yes, I'll be there.
-Like seriously.
You're gonna show up,
gonna be there?
-I'm really gonna be there.
-Okay.
You're not your dad
and you're not your mom either.
Okay? You're you,
and you're a good person.
Remember that?
[telephone ringing]
Gamble residence,
Elly speaking.
[woman] You must be the nurse.
Who's this?
My name is Alma Whitelorn.
I'm calling
on behalf of Ms. Ambrose.
She needs a carer.
Your mother recommended you.
My mother? When?
Last week.
We spoke on the telephone.
I'm sorry...
There must be a mistake.
I've been away.
I only came home
a couple of days ago.
Your mother said you'd be
coming home next week
and to try you then.
Is this a bad time?
[intense gurgling,
whirring, clicking]
Do you think she had it
all planned out?
Um, I don't know.
Maybe.
Ooh.
What happened here?
Oh, um...
Not long after my dad left,
I woke up
in the middle of the night
and... my mom was
sitting there with a syringe
and a little glass vial
and...
she took my blood.
Were you sick?
I don't think so.
That's fucked up.
Maybe it's why
I became a nurse.
Speaking of you
and your nursing,
you gonna take that job?
I don't know.
I could use the money.
The aid program was helping me
to pay off my nursing school.
I'm been kind of in danger
of defaulting.
What about the sale
of your mom's house?
Turns out she was
in some serious debt.
Okay, well, for once,
I cannot judge your mother,
because we both know
that I know about debt.
[laughs]
But I do think
you should take that job.
The change of scenery
would do you a lot of good.
Yeah. But it's out
in the sticks
and I don't have a car.
Okay, well, as per
my last email, I have a car.
It's a piece of shit,
but it's a car.
I'll drive, you get the gas.
You think she did it
to punish me?
Like trap me?
[Beth] You're not trapped.
You're gonna sell
that musty old house
and... live your life.
The phone call was so weird.
I don't even know how
my mom knew these people
or... why she recommended me.
[mother, voice echoing]
There, all done.
[intense soundtrack]
Shhh!
Go back to sleep, Eleanor.
[intense soundtrack]
[rattling]
[ominous music playing]
[sighs]
[intense soundtrack playing]
[soundtrack subsides]
[water stops]
[mother] Eleanor!
Get in here!
Mother?
Where were you?
I told you, I...
Where... were... you?
I was volunteering...
[ominous soundtrack rising]
[door creaking]
Look at me!
[liquid pouring]
[sniffing]
Do you smell that?
I pissed myself.
And nobody came to help.
Stop!
You should have seen that
nosy old bitch, Mrs. Dudley.
"Help! Somebody, come!"
She just opened up her big
stupid mouth and...
[roaring]
[horns blaring]
[train wheels clacking]
[distant train passing]
Elly, come on.
It's that crazy neighbor lady,
she just smacked this idea
into your head.
No, it was real.
[distant train horn blowing]
I mean, it felt real.
Well, maybe you should...
you know.
What?
See someone?
Talk about it, professionally.
Like a psychiatrist?
Yeah, like a...
exactly like a psychiatrist.
Great, then I'll officially
turn into her.
That's not possible, you're
never gonna become your mother.
I'm just...
You're grieving,
and this isn't my line.
I don't know what to do
with this stuff, but...
you can stay with me
for as long as it takes.
[phonograph spinning,
record drops]
You're my
Baby girl
And I'll always
Love you
You--
Isn't that the record
your mom used to always play?
She always said
it was our song.
It was playing
when Mrs. Dudley found her.
Then throw it in a box
or against the wall.
I don't think I can do that.
But I've decided
I'm going to take the job,
if you'll still drive me.
Hey, hey, I am so down
to do anything
that involves us
getting the fuck out of here.
-Okay.
-Okay.
[ominous
symphonic music playing]
What?
Weirdly familiar.
[echoing] Take my hand.
Girl, are you, like, 100% sure
you still wanna do this?
This is really
in the middle of nowhere.
Yeah, I'll be fine.
Creepy.
Was she always
standing right there?
Must be Alma.
Yay.
Alma.
Miss Campbell. Hmm.
I'm Alma Whitelorn.
In charge
of the Ambrose estate.
We spoke on the telephone.
You're late.
Oh, yeah, sorry.
The drive just took
a bit longer than we expected.
This is my friend Beth.
Hi.
The job's for one person.
Oh, I'm just...
I'm just the driver.
We're a little behind.
If you'll follow me.
[softly] Wow.
Refrigerator, oven.
There's no dishwasher
and no microwave.
I'm sure you can make do.
Yeah, no problem.
Help yourself to some fruit.
You can use the fireplace.
The nights have been
growing cold here.
A reliable landline.
You have my phone number
in case of an emergency.
I'll introduce you
to your patient now.
Don't mind if I do.
I made arrangements
for Ms. Ambrose
to have the best
possible care,
but they couldn't provide her
with a private room
until Monday.
A bed in a ward
simply wouldn't do.
Ms. Ambrose
is a private woman.
Does she have any family?
A daughter.
But she went away
some time ago.
Where did she go?
Your job is Ms. Ambrose.
[monitor beeping]
A precaution,
on the off chance
Ms. Ambrose were
to become responsive,
but that won't happen.
However, I must stress that
you do not leave these grounds
until the ambulance arrives
on Monday,
and I won't tolerate
any alcohol on the premises
or any visitors.
Ms. Ambrose is a private--
Private woman? Yeah.
I'll show you to your room now.
[intense soundtrack plays]
Perfect.
I wanted to ask you
about your time volunteering.
Yeah, of course.
Perhaps I misread
the dates on your rsum,
but it seems you were
caring for your mother
at the same time, correct?
Yeah, um...
My experience was
better suited to volunteering--
It's not easy
caring for family, is it?
No, it's not.
So, is this
the daughter's room?
There are no other bedrooms.
I really must get going.
If you have any further
questions, I'll see you inside.
[whistles softly]
She is a real charmer.
[whispering] Beth, can you
just not say anything else?
Have you met me?
Okay, fine, no problem.
I'll go get some air.
I can't breathe
in here, anyway.
Oh, yeah, and I would take
the couch if I were you.
Why?
What if the daughter
comes back
and finds Goldilocks
in her bed?
How is the apple?
Mm.
Biblical.
[whispering] She's crazy.
You're fuckin' crazy
for staying.
Well, she's not
gonna stay with me.
[Beth] Okay,
there she is again. Hello.
Half up front as agreed.
The rest on Monday.
Thank you.
And you'll be leaving soon?
Yep. Right after you do.
Um, Alma.
Do you know how my mother
knew Ms. Ambrose?
I believe they were
old acquaintances, no?
Uh... maybe.
I'm not really sure.
Well, if that's all,
I'll say good afternoon then.
Thanks for everything.
Yeah, I rest my case.
[contemplative music playing]
All right, get it all out.
Okay, for openers,
you don't have a car.
That's why you drove me.
Which is exactly how I know
you don't have a car.
Also, you barely know
how to use a cell phone,
so, what if something happens?
You're in the middle
of nowhere.
You would be
literally stranded.
I'm looking
after a comatose woman
in a country cabin.
I mean, look at this place,
it's like an Airbnb.
Yeah, super nice Airbnb,
even comes with its own
little check-in receptionist
who's also married to Satan.
And then the host
stays with you in a coma.
Five-star review.
You're the one who talked me
into taking this job.
Yeah, because I thought you
needed a change of scenery.
-Yeah, this is it.
-That's not what I meant.
-Alma's gone now.
-Could you just stop?
Shut up, just stop!
Look me in the eye and tell me
you're not taking this job
just because
of you and your mom,
'cause there are
a lot of similarities here
I can't ignore.
Listen, I'm staying.
And I would really appreciate
your support on this.
Okay, fine.
Better give me your landline
because you and phones--
I already texted it to you.
Oh, you do know how
to use a cell phone.
Look at you, going
into the 21st century.
I'm proud of you.
You're fuckin' insane.
-Really sweet, thank you.
-Yeah, I know.
I love you too, bitch.
[Elly scoffs]
[car door closes]
[car engine starts]
[pensive music playing]
[beads rattling]
[monitor beeping]
[door creaks]
Ms. Ambrose, my name is Elly.
Now, I understand
you like your privacy
and I respect that,
but if you need anything,
day or night,
don't hesitate to call me.
I'll be here.
Okay, so I'm just going
to pull the covers down here.
Make sure you're nice
and tight... there.
[dramatic soundtrack plays]
Ms. Ambrose.
Hello, how are you?
[emitting guttural sounds]
[mother] Eleanor!
Get in here!
[door creaking, clattering]
[crows cawing]
[scratching noises]
[humming
"You Are My Baby Girl"]
[stops humming]
And no microwave.
[mother] Eleanor!
[faintly] Eleanor!
[bluesy ballad playing]
Every day I'm alone
Every day I sit
Waiting by the phone
But you don't call
No, you don't
No, you don't call
All these years
and all these tears
But you don't think
of me at all
At all
But every day
I think of you
And every day I think
Of all
that we've been through
And now you're gone,
yes you are...
[monitor beeping]
Hi, Ms. Ambrose.
Just gonna check
your pulse here, okay?
Blue's a good color for you.
I'm sure you know that.
All good.
I think you look ready
for bed, huh?
Me too.
I'll just, uh...
sit with you
for a little while.
[song playing faintly
in distance]
[monitor beeping]
[fire crackling softly]
[beeping stops]
[dramatic soundtrack rises]
[fly buzzing]
[telephone ringing]
[monitor beeping]
[ringing]
[needle scratching record]
[ringing continues]
Hello. Ambrose residence.
[Beth, melodramatically]
Hello, Nurse Gamble.
Hey, what's up?
Just thought I'd call
and check in.
Tried your cell,
but per usual,
you threw it in the middle
of the ocean somewhere.
Sorry, I was sitting
with Ms. Ambrose
and I had
some music playing.
Oh, it sounds romantic.
[chuckles]
Not exactly, you weirdo.
Oh, so I found
some old records,
and they all had
"Dorothy Ambrose"
written on them--
I guess that's the daughter?
You mean the one that
went away some time ago?
Do you really think
she'll come back?
Okay, are you having
a delayed freakout?
'Cause I can
still come and get you.
No, I'm fine.
Thank you for
the vote of confidence.
Listen, it turns out
that I'm off Sunday,
so how about
I come down there,
bring you some real food,
perhaps some real booze?
I mean, that does
sound tempting.
Don't know what I'm gonna do
with all these
microwave dinners.
[mother] Eleanor.
[Beth] Elly?
Yeah?
What is it?
Um... nothing.
But I should go.
Okay, just.. |
look out for yourself, okay?
Yes, nurse.
I'll see you Sunday.
Night.
Night.
[window thuds]
[ominous music rising]
[thuds]
[thuds]
[door creaks]
Looks like someone's trying
to scare you is all.
Well, they succeeded.
I'll look into it,
but I don't think
you need to worry, ma'am.
It's probably some kids.
Do kids even live around here?
It just feels pretty isolated.
Yeah, you're right about that,
it is isolated.
But there's some farmland
that borders the property.
I'll ask around and see
if anybody saw anything.
Okay.
The place has a bit
of a history is all.
A history of...?
It's superstitious stuff
that people like you and me
pay no attention to.
But I'll check back in
if I find anything.
How long you planning
on sticking around for?
Just until Monday.
An ambulance is gonna come
take Ms. Ambrose
to the hospital.
Dorothy took ill?
No, Dorothy's away.
I'm looking after her mother.
Old Ms. Ambrose?
Yeah, that's right.
I thought she died.
Oh, no.
Well, she had a stroke,
but... still hanging in there.
[dispatcher speaking
indistinctly on police radio]
All right.
Well, I better get going.
Yeah.
-Good night, ma'am.
-Thank you for coming.
Oh, any time.
Have a good night.
Good night.
[insects chirruping]
[fly buzzing]
Hey.
What's your name?
My name's Elly.
You live around here?
[girl running]
[Beth] If you insist
on staying there,
then I insist on looking into
that Alma lady, for real.
She creeps me out.
Okay, and how do you
propose to do that?
My dad has this investigator,
I think his name's Novak.
He uses him only
in criminal cases,
but he's really,
really good.
You're serious?
Damn straight, I'm serious.
Just don't go too far
from that old telephone
and watch your back, girl.
[clattering]
[warbling noises]
[high-pitched whistling]
[whistling
and warbling continue]
[woman] Come and gaze
at his blaze of fire,
where winged embers rise
to kindling choir!
He is darkness.
He is whispers.
He is sweet
inside your heart.
He is heat, he is smoke...
he is fire in your throat.
[flies buzzing]
Dorothy, is that you?
My name's Elly. Alma hired me
to look after your mother.
I hope you don't think
I'm intruding.
[clatter, rattling noises]
[door creaking]
-[ominous soundtrack playing]
-[flies buzzing]
[monitor beeping]
Ms. Ambrose,
did you say something?
[flies buzzing]
[door slams]
[ominous soundtrack playing]
[mother, angrily] Eleanor!
I told you you could
never leave me again.
Do you hear me, Eleanor?
Do you hear me?
I'll always be with you!
No!
No! No!
No!
[sobbing]
[shrieking]
[Beth] So, what did
Novak find?
[man] It's what he didn't find
that bothers me,
a record of any Alma Whitelorn.
Maybe she's just
a family friend helping out?
Novak asked around.
Nobody's ever heard
of this Alma woman.
Far as he knows, it's just
Ms. Ambrose and a daughter.
-Dorothy?
-Right.
She's listed as
the mother's next-of-kin.
Look, pumpkin.
There's something else.
There's rumors about
this place going way back.
Now, I know most of it sounds
like old campfire
ghost stories to me...
-But?
-But...
I've never seen
my guy so spooked.
If I were you,
I'd pull Elly out of there.
He thinks it's
all kinds of wrong.
-Novak said that?
-Mm-hmm.
Fuck.
I mean shit. I mean...
Sorry, Dad.
[gasps]
Didn't mean to startle you.
Just paying a quick visit.
I'm Mary Lynn Crandon,
and this is my daughter Sadie.
Hi. I'm Elly.
Sadie's here to apologize.
So you were the one who threw
the apple with the note?
She meant well, but...
she just went about it
all wrong.
Apologize to the lady.
It's okay,
there's no real harm done.
Did you wanna come in
for some coffee or...
[Mary] No.
I have to run
some errands in town.
I'd be happy to drop you off
at the bus station.
What is she looking at?
[ominous music playing]
[Mary] A bad memory.
You've got no business
being here.
I'm a nurse, I'm here
to care for Ms. Ambrose.
I know something about
Ms. Ambrose that you don't.
And what's that?
She's dead.
Um... hi. Excuse me.
I'm looking for one of those...
Shoot, I don't know the name.
They're like
in all the horror movies
and like investigator...
shows, whatever.
They're like micro-- Oh!
Microfish.
I think you mean
a "microfiche"?
I have one.
I can show you if you like.
I would love that.
[mouthing words]
She's dead?
That's not possible.
What's in that back bedroom
is a demon in a shell,
nothing more.
That's enough.
I locked them up together
in hell
with the crucifix
I carved in her throat.
[whispering]
Your daughter is right here.
[Mary] That wicked Jezebel,
Dorothy Ambrose,
wants her mother out,
but the only way
it will let her go
is if it has a nice
young body to slip into.
That's where you come in.
Get out of here,
or I'll call the cops.
And I know your daughter
has my phone,
I want it back now.
She's no thief.
She only came here to warn you.
Why doesn't she speak
instead of sneaking around
leaving horrible notes?
Sadie.
[Elly] Oh, my...
[singing indistinct lyrics]
[Mary] The doctors said
it looked like her tongue
had been chewed off
in the womb.
I know that whatever did
the chewing is still in there.
Dormant.
I see it sometimes.
The way she looks
right straight through me
or when she's staring
off into space.
But don't think I won't be
ready for the day it wakes up.
Thomas...
my husband?
He gave into temptation,
just once.
But when he tried
to break it off with Dorothy,
she became fixated on him.
When he rejected her,
she had a breakdown.
She told her mother
that he'd been spreading
filthy lies about her,
and then she went
and ran off like a coward.
"Dorothy Ambrose,
pictures from..."
[Mary] So Ms. Ambrose
put a hex on Thomas
and his unborn children.
That's how Sadie came to be
one of the accursed.
What did you get
yourself into, Elly?
I'm sorry, do you really expect
me to believe in curses?
We were skeptics too.
Until our second.
Lily.
She wasn't as strong as Sadie.
Died a week after she was born.
[sighs]
Thomas blamed himself.
So one night
he came out here...
and he hung himself
from this tree.
Sadie found him
the next morning.
Froze pretty bad.
Oh, my God.
"He who is hanged
is accursed of God."
Deuteronomy 21:23.
I'm so sorry, Mary Lynn.
Well, I took my revenge.
Although we're not done yet,
Sadie and me.
Maybe you should stop now,
just call it even.
Even?
What if something
happens to Sadie?
What if you get
yourself arrested?
What kind of example
are you setting?
You don't have
a daughter, do you?
-No.
-Well, if you did,
you'd know there's no stopping
them turning into you,
sure as night follows day.
[sighs]
She covered her neck,
didn't she?
What?
Look, you can bury your head
in the sand if you want,
but mark my words,
we will burn down this cabin.
I thought you were
off tonight.
-I am.
-Okay, so what did I tell you
about getting yourself a life?
Yeah, still working on that.
Listen, if a patient
is checking into
a private room on Monday, would
that be in the system yet?
You trying to shack up
with the patients again, Beth?
Uh, fuck you.
No, I am checking
on a friend's mother.
So could you do me
a huge favor
and please just run
her name through the system?
I mean, I could,
but you owe me a margarita.
-Yeah, fine, whatever.
-Okay.
A-M-B-R-O-S-E.
Ambrose.
Yeah, there's nothing here
for the next 30 days.
[fire crackling]
[ominous music rising]
Eleanor.
[flies buzzing]
[distorted whispering]
You are my baby girl.
And I'll always love you.
You'll be my best friend
'til the end.
I'll never leave you.
When the night is cold,
I'll be there to warm you.
Every dream you had before,
we'll make them
all come true.
'Cause you're my baby girl,
and I'll always love you.
You'll be my best friend
'til the end.
I'll never leave you.
[monitor beeping]
Ms. Ambrose, can you hear me?
[ominous soundtrack]
[door creaking]
[line ringing]
Oh, no.
[woman] Sorry, this number
is not currently in service.
Shit.
[breaking eggs]
Shit.
[line ringing]
Come on, Elly.
[ringing continues]
[woman]
Please leave your message--
Come on, goddamn it!
[table rattles]
-[line ringing]
-Come on, come on, come on.
Answer the phone, damn it!
-[woman] Sorry, this number--
-Fuck!
You should just breathe.
[thunder crashes]
Dad?
It'll all be over soon,
Eleanor, just one more.
[hatch clatters]
Oh!
[faint, vague noises]
[soft creaking]
[garbled dial tone]
[beads rattling]
Alma, is that you?
-[phone chimes]
-Please.
[sighs]
Thank you,
little-fat-baby-jesus!
[monitor beeping]
[ominous music playing]
Ms. Ambrose!
Ms. Ambrose.
Eleanor!
[Elly whimpering]
After Daddy abandoned us,
at least we had each other.
But when you left too,
I was scared.
I couldn't survive
without you.
I had to bring you back.
You'll be my best friend
'til the end.
I'll never leave you.
[ominous soundtrack playing]
[screaming]
Hello?
El?
I brought your favorite.
[fly buzzing]
Eww!
[shower running]
Elly, it's me.
[laughing] Oh, my God.
How long have you been
in here?
I brought wine
to celebrate because
I was on my way to save you
from that crazy house
when I got your text.
I have so much tea to spill
on that crazy little bitch,
I don't even know where
to start.
[shower running]
Elly?
Elly, come on,
you're freaking me out.
[faucet handle creaks]
-[ominous music rising]
-[blade slicing]
You want to go downstairs?
[kicks]
[thuds]
[Beth vocalizing]
I know... I know...
Speak if you have
something to say!
[Beth] I know your secret,
you two-faced cunt!
[mother] You left me!
[demonic voices mocking,
laughing]
[vocal pitch lowering]
I'll never leave you...
[angrily] Where did you go?!
[mocking and laughter continue]
You're my baby girl!
[garbled voices mocking]
You left me all alone!
-Shh!
-[voices fade]
[blues record playing]
[siren wailing]
[approaching footsteps]
-[knock on door]
-[Green] Open up, please.
-It's Officer Green.
-Come in.
Look, it's not safe here.
Oh, you got that right.
Now, we got a tip that a woman
named Mary Lynn Crandon
is gonna burn this place
down tonight,
so I came here to warn you
and escort you into town.
Okay, great, let's go.
What about Ms. Ambrose?
Um...
she's dead.
-I thought you said--
-I know.
I know, I was misinformed.
She still back there?
Look, I don't know
what the hell that thing is
in the bedroom but I
was lured here for something.
-Lured?
-[bell chimes]
I thought you said
she was dead.
We need to leave now.
I'm not leaving
some old sick woman
to be burnt up in her bed
by some nut.
-Look, you can't go back there.
-[bell chimes]
You can wait out front
with my partner if you like.
[beads rattling]
Fuck!
Officer Green,
don't go in there!
Just wait outside.
Ms. Ambrose?
Ma'am, are you in here?
-[thuds]
-Oh!
[distant siren wailing]
[game sound effects on phone]
[groans]
-[Elly] Open up!
-Back away from the door!
Get out of there now!
[Green] Step away
from the door!
[Elly] She's not human,
you have to get out!
[banging]
Officer Green, please!
Please listen to me,
I was set up!
You have got to get out!
Please! [knocking] Please!
Just listen to me,
you have to listen to me.
You have to get out now!
[ominous music rising]
Officer Green, open the door
right now! [banging]
Please!
[Elly sobbing]
Please! [knocking]
What the fuck?
[screams]
[game sound effects playing]
Officer Green?
[slopping, gurgling noise]
[Elly gasping, whimpering]
[door slams]
Help!
[game sound effects playing]
-Officer!
-What happened to you?
Uh-- It's a long story.
Wait, where is my partner?
She killed him.
-Who?
-Ms. Ambrose.
I need to find out
what the hell's going on here.
Get in that house--
[Elly whimpering]
Beth?
Oh, Beth. Oh, my God.
It's gonna be okay.
[gasping]
I'm so tired. [gasping]
[ominous music rising]
Alma? What did you do?
[ominous soundtrack pulsing]
[fire crackling]
Alma, please...
Now, hush.
This won't hurt a bit, Eleanor.
Everything's gonna be okay.
[Alma] There, there.
All done.
Where is she?
Shh!
Your mother brought you here
a long time ago.
You were just a girl.
I gave you an apple.
She wanted to put a curse
on your deadbeat daddy,
but she didn't have
any money to pay with,
so she paid in blood.
Your blood, Elly.
-A curse for a curse.
-[thunder crashes]
My mother stored it
in the cellar
in case she'd ever need it,
but you destroyed it tonight,
and now I'm
calling in the debt.
You're out
of your fucking mind.
[coughs]
Your mother always knew
this day would come.
That's why she came back.
That's why she hanged herself,
to offer you up.
It's your fate, Elly.
Then why did you have to kill
Beth, you psycho bitch?
[Alma humming
"You Are My Baby Girl"]
It's a catchy song.
I can see why
you hum it all the time.
[Elly whimpering]
Wait, wait, wait! Wait.
Dorothy... I know you're
Ms. Ambrose's daughter.
You don't
have to pretend anymore.
I get what it's like
to look after a sick parent.
You were right, it's not easy.
Believe me, I know.
Listen, Mary Lynn
told me everything.
I don't blame you
for running away.
Fuck.
I lied to you about
why I was volunteering.
I couldn't handle
looking after my mother.
I was scared of her, I was
scared of turning into her,
so I ran way,
just like my dad.
I left her
when she needed me most.
And she killed herself.
I know your pain, Dorothy.
My name is Alma.
[screaming]
[chuckles]
[whimpering]
There's your friend.
In your face!
Always had an answer
for everything!
Well, I fooled her, didn't I?
[laughing]
Now, swallow her down!
[Elly sobbing]
[gagging]
[Alma laughing]
[sobbing]
This is a ritual
my mother taught me.
Are you ready...
to gaze into hell?
"Come and gaze
at his blaze of fire,
where winged embers rise
to kindling choir!"
"He is darkness,
he is whispers,
he is sweet inside
your heart."
"He is heat, he is smoke,
he is fire in your throat."
Ms. Ambrose?
"I invite you
to rise out of your shell."
"I implore you
to visit us from hell."
He is coming
for his fresh vessel!
[flies buzzing]
[laughing] Yes!
No...
What's happening?
No...
-What's happening to her?
-[flies buzzing]
[crackling]
[Alma gasping]
[low snarling]
Take her!
[shrieking]
You!
Curse you!
You tried that already.
[Alma gagging]
[flies buzz fiercely]
"Demon, O Demon,
take back now to part
well of flame
that floods the heart."
"Demon, O Demon,
return to thine host,
rejoin thine legion,
abandon this host!"
-[flies buzzing]
-"Retreat now, O Dark One."
"Scatter your ashes
to the winds."
"He's brightness,
he's singing,
he's the balance
for the blood."
"He is ice, he is pain,
he is lightning,
and he is rain."
[snarling]
[glass shatters]
[flies buzzing]
[demon screaming]
[blade clangs]
[demon moaning]
Let's go!
[snarling]
[mother] Eleanor!
Don't leave me!
[demon snarling]
[door slams]
Hey, Elly, I'm gonna
grab a coffee.
-Want anything?
-I'm okay, thank you.
You are my
Baby girl
And I'll always
love you
You'll be
my best friend
'Til the end
I'll never leave you
When the night is cold
I'll be there
To warm you
Every dream you had
Before
I'll make them
All come true
'Cause you're
my baby girl
-[screaming]
-And I'll always love--
[ominous soundtrack playing]
[Metallica] There's a devil
waitin' outside your door
How much longer?
There's a devil waitin'
outside your door
How much longer?
And he's buckin'
and brayin'
And pawin' at the floor
How much longer?
And he's howlin' with pain
and crawlin' up the wall
-How much longer?
-Oh, yeah
And there's a devil waitin'
outside your door
How much longer?
And he's weak with evil
and broken by the world
How much longer?
And he's shoutin' your name
and he's askin' for more
How much longer?
Give him more,
give him more
There's a devil waitin'
outside your door
How much longer?
Oh, yeah
Loverman
Since the world began
Forever, amen
'Til the end of time
Take off that dress
I'm comin' down
I'm your loverman
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
L is for love, baby
And O is for only you
that I do
And V is for lovin'
virtually all that you are
And E is for lovin'
almost everything you do
R is for rape me
and M is for murder me
And A is for answerin'
all of my prayers
N is for knowin'
your loverman's goin'
To be the answer
to all of yours, yeah
Loverman
'Til the bitter end
While the empires
burn down
Forever and ever
and ever, ever, amen
Loverman
So help me, baby
So help me,
baby
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
What I am
I'll be your loverman
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
How much longer?
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
How much longer?
With a tremblin' heart
He's comin'
through the door
How much longer?
With his strainin' sex
in his jumpin' paws
-How much longer?
-Oh, yeah
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
How much longer?
And he's old
and he's stupid
And he's hungry
and he's sore
And he's lame
and he's blind
And he's dirty
and he's poor
Give me more, give me more,
give me more, give me more
-How much longer?
-Give me more
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
-How much longer?
-Oh, yes
Loverman
Now here I stand
Forever, amen
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
So forgive me, baby
My hands are bound
And I got no choice
No, I got no choice, no
I'll say it again
L is for love
and O is for oh yes I do
-Whoo!
-And V is for virtue
So I ain't gonna
hurt you
E is for even
if you want me to
R is for render
unto me, baby
M is for that
which is mine
A is for any old how,
darlin'
And N is for
any old time
Loverman
I got a masterplan
To take off your dress
And be your man
Seize the throne
And seize the mantle
And seize that crown
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
What I am
Your loverman
-[ominous music playing]
-[thunder crashing]
[thunder rumbling]
And don't come inside
until the screaming starts.
[door creaking]
[door slams]
[fire crackling]
[beads rattling]
[thunder crashes]
[shutter clicks, camera whirs]
Sit.
Commune...
or curse?
Curse. [clears throat]
Payment first.
Blood now.
And...
what fate...
for the owner of this blood?
I want the devil himself
to take possession of her,
for both to be locked
in hell together, forever.
[woman chuckles harshly]
Well...
the devil himself
never takes possession.
He sends one of his legions.
A demon?
Mm-hmm.
And it will be
whenever he so chooses,
unless...
[chuckles]
What?
It'll cost double.
I'll get it, tonight.
As soon as we finish,
go to this person quickly.
She may be violently ill
and have supernatural strength.
You must take this knife
and wait for the point
of no return,
when the demon
has come too far.
How do I know when that is?
You'll see the demon's
three fingers
emerging from the mouth
of the accursed.
Carve a crucifix
into the flesh of the throat,
above the chest.
Are you ready
to gaze into hell?
Yes.
Mm.
Come and gaze at his blaze
of fire,
where winged embers rise
to kindling choir!
He is darkness.
He is whispers.
He is sweet
inside your heart.
He is heat.
He is smoke...
[gasping]
...in your throat.
[thunder crashing]
What now?
We wait for the devil
to relight his candle.
Watch close my face,
for the face of the accursed
will soon take mine
but for a moment.
He...
is real.
He...
is imagined.
He...
is stationed at
the seal.
Ahh...
[fly buzzing]
I...
I hear...
a fly.
[buzzing continues]
But I... I don't...
I don't see one.
[gasping]
[clattering noise]
Do... do you hear it?
[noise growing louder]
Only...
the accursed...
hears the fly!
[gasping, shrieking]
Where...
did you get...
the blood?!
Where did you get
this blood?!
My daughter bled you
while you slept, witch!
My name is Mary Lynn Crandon,
and this is
for my husband Thomas!
[shrieking]
[witch snarling]
[Mary] Sadie!
[snarling]
[groaning]
[shrieking]
[thunder crashing]
Next time we burn it down.
[thunder crashing]
[intense
symphonic music playing]
[music fades]
[birds singing]
Elly, you need me to stay?
No, you go. I'm fine.
Fine.
Let's go with that.
So, are you going
to stay in town awhile?
Uh... probably
until I sell this place.
I want to get back to Haiti,
they need volunteers.
Lots of junk to clear out,
keep me busy till then.
[laughs] True.
I can stop by tomorrow,
help you out.
You don't have to do that.
I want to.
I can bring wine,
like old times.
Great. Sounds good.
Hey, Beth?
Thank you
for coming to the service.
It means a lot.
See you tomorrow, El.
[contemplative music playing]
[water running]
[humming
"You Are My Baby Girl"]
[in distance]
You are my baby girl
And I'll always
love you
You'll be
my best friend
'Til the end
I'll never leave
You
When the night is cold
I'll be there
To warm you
Every dream you--
[telephone ringing]
Hello?
[Beth] Hello.
Hey, are you on your way now?
Um, are you in 1952?
Why am I always
having to find
a landline number
to call you on?
Like, there is such a thing
as cell phones.
I'm sorry,
I'm always losing it.
I've been cleaning nonstop.
Okay, well, since
you don't have a cell phone,
have you seen
your television set,
or is that too much
for you, too?
No. [laughs] Why?
Oh, shit.
The news, like,
it's pretty rotten.
What's going on?
They're cutting off
all foreign aid to Haiti.
I mean, no one is going
in or out, nobody.
Oh, shit.
Sorry.
[sighs]
So, I called my team leader.
He said
the State Department issued
a level 4 travel advisory.
Level 4, that's bad, right?
Right. It means I can't
get a flight back.
I mean, the worst part is
those people still need help,
and we're just abandoning them.
People need help
here, too, Elly.
We're having a blood drive
at St. Luke's tomorrow.
You could start with that.
Yeah, sign me up.
Really? Now, that is
the Elly I know.
How about we do just
one more of these big boxes
and then pop open
the Vin de Luxe,
-since this is boring.
-Okay.
Yes!
[woman] Elly.
Mrs. Dudley, hi.
I'm sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
It's nice of you to stop by.
I only came by to give you back
the spare key.
I...
I'm sorry I wasn't
able to make the service.
It's really all right,
don't worry about it.
Looks like you're busy.
Yeah, we are. [sighs]
[ominous music playing]
I was the one
who found your mother.
Mrs. Dudley,
do you want to come inside?
I wouldn't have gone inside
if I hadn't heard the music.
Hey, El, where are the boxes
from the attic?
Uh, check the kitchen.
I'm sorry... what music?
That old song she liked
to play, you know the one.
I was passing by on my way
to church when I heard it.
It was a record.
It should have been
skipping, but...
It just...
And I'll never leave--
I just... [sighing]
Mrs. Dudley, I'm so sorry.
You were always a really great
neighbor to us,
especially after my dad left.
Do you mean when he ran off
with that whore?
Why did you
run off on her, too, Elly?
She was sick.
She had nobody.
If you had been here,
I wouldn't have had
to go through that horror.
I'm sorry for what you saw,
but you have no right
to lecture me
about my choices.
Hey! Okay...
I think you'd better
go now, Mrs. Dudley.
I haven't slept for days!
I lie in bed at night.
I keep seeing her face!
[Elly] I can't believe
she slapped me.
No one would believe
that she slapped you.
She's right.
About what?
Maybe I should have been here.
Elly, you were here.
You stuck around.
[Elly] Yeah, until I didn't.
I hated my dad
after he left her.
Then I did the same thing.
Well, now, your dad walked out
on his wife and his daughter.
That is not at all
the same thing.
All you did was
go out of this town
and went and lived your life.
That's normal, that is healthy.
That is nothing
to feel guilty about.
[phone chimes]
Shoot, that's my ride.
Should I cancel?
No. No, you've got
an early start.
But I am gonna see you
at the blood drive
tomorrow, right?
-Yes, I'll be there.
-Like seriously.
You're gonna show up,
gonna be there?
-I'm really gonna be there.
-Okay.
You're not your dad
and you're not your mom either.
Okay? You're you,
and you're a good person.
Remember that?
[telephone ringing]
Gamble residence,
Elly speaking.
[woman] You must be the nurse.
Who's this?
My name is Alma Whitelorn.
I'm calling
on behalf of Ms. Ambrose.
She needs a carer.
Your mother recommended you.
My mother? When?
Last week.
We spoke on the telephone.
I'm sorry...
There must be a mistake.
I've been away.
I only came home
a couple of days ago.
Your mother said you'd be
coming home next week
and to try you then.
Is this a bad time?
[intense gurgling,
whirring, clicking]
Do you think she had it
all planned out?
Um, I don't know.
Maybe.
Ooh.
What happened here?
Oh, um...
Not long after my dad left,
I woke up
in the middle of the night
and... my mom was
sitting there with a syringe
and a little glass vial
and...
she took my blood.
Were you sick?
I don't think so.
That's fucked up.
Maybe it's why
I became a nurse.
Speaking of you
and your nursing,
you gonna take that job?
I don't know.
I could use the money.
The aid program was helping me
to pay off my nursing school.
I'm been kind of in danger
of defaulting.
What about the sale
of your mom's house?
Turns out she was
in some serious debt.
Okay, well, for once,
I cannot judge your mother,
because we both know
that I know about debt.
[laughs]
But I do think
you should take that job.
The change of scenery
would do you a lot of good.
Yeah. But it's out
in the sticks
and I don't have a car.
Okay, well, as per
my last email, I have a car.
It's a piece of shit,
but it's a car.
I'll drive, you get the gas.
You think she did it
to punish me?
Like trap me?
[Beth] You're not trapped.
You're gonna sell
that musty old house
and... live your life.
The phone call was so weird.
I don't even know how
my mom knew these people
or... why she recommended me.
[mother, voice echoing]
There, all done.
[intense soundtrack]
Shhh!
Go back to sleep, Eleanor.
[intense soundtrack]
[rattling]
[ominous music playing]
[sighs]
[intense soundtrack playing]
[soundtrack subsides]
[water stops]
[mother] Eleanor!
Get in here!
Mother?
Where were you?
I told you, I...
Where... were... you?
I was volunteering...
[ominous soundtrack rising]
[door creaking]
Look at me!
[liquid pouring]
[sniffing]
Do you smell that?
I pissed myself.
And nobody came to help.
Stop!
You should have seen that
nosy old bitch, Mrs. Dudley.
"Help! Somebody, come!"
She just opened up her big
stupid mouth and...
[roaring]
[horns blaring]
[train wheels clacking]
[distant train passing]
Elly, come on.
It's that crazy neighbor lady,
she just smacked this idea
into your head.
No, it was real.
[distant train horn blowing]
I mean, it felt real.
Well, maybe you should...
you know.
What?
See someone?
Talk about it, professionally.
Like a psychiatrist?
Yeah, like a...
exactly like a psychiatrist.
Great, then I'll officially
turn into her.
That's not possible, you're
never gonna become your mother.
I'm just...
You're grieving,
and this isn't my line.
I don't know what to do
with this stuff, but...
you can stay with me
for as long as it takes.
[phonograph spinning,
record drops]
You're my
Baby girl
And I'll always
Love you
You--
Isn't that the record
your mom used to always play?
She always said
it was our song.
It was playing
when Mrs. Dudley found her.
Then throw it in a box
or against the wall.
I don't think I can do that.
But I've decided
I'm going to take the job,
if you'll still drive me.
Hey, hey, I am so down
to do anything
that involves us
getting the fuck out of here.
-Okay.
-Okay.
[ominous
symphonic music playing]
What?
Weirdly familiar.
[echoing] Take my hand.
Girl, are you, like, 100% sure
you still wanna do this?
This is really
in the middle of nowhere.
Yeah, I'll be fine.
Creepy.
Was she always
standing right there?
Must be Alma.
Yay.
Alma.
Miss Campbell. Hmm.
I'm Alma Whitelorn.
In charge
of the Ambrose estate.
We spoke on the telephone.
You're late.
Oh, yeah, sorry.
The drive just took
a bit longer than we expected.
This is my friend Beth.
Hi.
The job's for one person.
Oh, I'm just...
I'm just the driver.
We're a little behind.
If you'll follow me.
[softly] Wow.
Refrigerator, oven.
There's no dishwasher
and no microwave.
I'm sure you can make do.
Yeah, no problem.
Help yourself to some fruit.
You can use the fireplace.
The nights have been
growing cold here.
A reliable landline.
You have my phone number
in case of an emergency.
I'll introduce you
to your patient now.
Don't mind if I do.
I made arrangements
for Ms. Ambrose
to have the best
possible care,
but they couldn't provide her
with a private room
until Monday.
A bed in a ward
simply wouldn't do.
Ms. Ambrose
is a private woman.
Does she have any family?
A daughter.
But she went away
some time ago.
Where did she go?
Your job is Ms. Ambrose.
[monitor beeping]
A precaution,
on the off chance
Ms. Ambrose were
to become responsive,
but that won't happen.
However, I must stress that
you do not leave these grounds
until the ambulance arrives
on Monday,
and I won't tolerate
any alcohol on the premises
or any visitors.
Ms. Ambrose is a private--
Private woman? Yeah.
I'll show you to your room now.
[intense soundtrack plays]
Perfect.
I wanted to ask you
about your time volunteering.
Yeah, of course.
Perhaps I misread
the dates on your rsum,
but it seems you were
caring for your mother
at the same time, correct?
Yeah, um...
My experience was
better suited to volunteering--
It's not easy
caring for family, is it?
No, it's not.
So, is this
the daughter's room?
There are no other bedrooms.
I really must get going.
If you have any further
questions, I'll see you inside.
[whistles softly]
She is a real charmer.
[whispering] Beth, can you
just not say anything else?
Have you met me?
Okay, fine, no problem.
I'll go get some air.
I can't breathe
in here, anyway.
Oh, yeah, and I would take
the couch if I were you.
Why?
What if the daughter
comes back
and finds Goldilocks
in her bed?
How is the apple?
Mm.
Biblical.
[whispering] She's crazy.
You're fuckin' crazy
for staying.
Well, she's not
gonna stay with me.
[Beth] Okay,
there she is again. Hello.
Half up front as agreed.
The rest on Monday.
Thank you.
And you'll be leaving soon?
Yep. Right after you do.
Um, Alma.
Do you know how my mother
knew Ms. Ambrose?
I believe they were
old acquaintances, no?
Uh... maybe.
I'm not really sure.
Well, if that's all,
I'll say good afternoon then.
Thanks for everything.
Yeah, I rest my case.
[contemplative music playing]
All right, get it all out.
Okay, for openers,
you don't have a car.
That's why you drove me.
Which is exactly how I know
you don't have a car.
Also, you barely know
how to use a cell phone,
so, what if something happens?
You're in the middle
of nowhere.
You would be
literally stranded.
I'm looking
after a comatose woman
in a country cabin.
I mean, look at this place,
it's like an Airbnb.
Yeah, super nice Airbnb,
even comes with its own
little check-in receptionist
who's also married to Satan.
And then the host
stays with you in a coma.
Five-star review.
You're the one who talked me
into taking this job.
Yeah, because I thought you
needed a change of scenery.
-Yeah, this is it.
-That's not what I meant.
-Alma's gone now.
-Could you just stop?
Shut up, just stop!
Look me in the eye and tell me
you're not taking this job
just because
of you and your mom,
'cause there are
a lot of similarities here
I can't ignore.
Listen, I'm staying.
And I would really appreciate
your support on this.
Okay, fine.
Better give me your landline
because you and phones--
I already texted it to you.
Oh, you do know how
to use a cell phone.
Look at you, going
into the 21st century.
I'm proud of you.
You're fuckin' insane.
-Really sweet, thank you.
-Yeah, I know.
I love you too, bitch.
[Elly scoffs]
[car door closes]
[car engine starts]
[pensive music playing]
[beads rattling]
[monitor beeping]
[door creaks]
Ms. Ambrose, my name is Elly.
Now, I understand
you like your privacy
and I respect that,
but if you need anything,
day or night,
don't hesitate to call me.
I'll be here.
Okay, so I'm just going
to pull the covers down here.
Make sure you're nice
and tight... there.
[dramatic soundtrack plays]
Ms. Ambrose.
Hello, how are you?
[emitting guttural sounds]
[mother] Eleanor!
Get in here!
[door creaking, clattering]
[crows cawing]
[scratching noises]
[humming
"You Are My Baby Girl"]
[stops humming]
And no microwave.
[mother] Eleanor!
[faintly] Eleanor!
[bluesy ballad playing]
Every day I'm alone
Every day I sit
Waiting by the phone
But you don't call
No, you don't
No, you don't call
All these years
and all these tears
But you don't think
of me at all
At all
But every day
I think of you
And every day I think
Of all
that we've been through
And now you're gone,
yes you are...
[monitor beeping]
Hi, Ms. Ambrose.
Just gonna check
your pulse here, okay?
Blue's a good color for you.
I'm sure you know that.
All good.
I think you look ready
for bed, huh?
Me too.
I'll just, uh...
sit with you
for a little while.
[song playing faintly
in distance]
[monitor beeping]
[fire crackling softly]
[beeping stops]
[dramatic soundtrack rises]
[fly buzzing]
[telephone ringing]
[monitor beeping]
[ringing]
[needle scratching record]
[ringing continues]
Hello. Ambrose residence.
[Beth, melodramatically]
Hello, Nurse Gamble.
Hey, what's up?
Just thought I'd call
and check in.
Tried your cell,
but per usual,
you threw it in the middle
of the ocean somewhere.
Sorry, I was sitting
with Ms. Ambrose
and I had
some music playing.
Oh, it sounds romantic.
[chuckles]
Not exactly, you weirdo.
Oh, so I found
some old records,
and they all had
"Dorothy Ambrose"
written on them--
I guess that's the daughter?
You mean the one that
went away some time ago?
Do you really think
she'll come back?
Okay, are you having
a delayed freakout?
'Cause I can
still come and get you.
No, I'm fine.
Thank you for
the vote of confidence.
Listen, it turns out
that I'm off Sunday,
so how about
I come down there,
bring you some real food,
perhaps some real booze?
I mean, that does
sound tempting.
Don't know what I'm gonna do
with all these
microwave dinners.
[mother] Eleanor.
[Beth] Elly?
Yeah?
What is it?
Um... nothing.
But I should go.
Okay, just.. |
look out for yourself, okay?
Yes, nurse.
I'll see you Sunday.
Night.
Night.
[window thuds]
[ominous music rising]
[thuds]
[thuds]
[door creaks]
Looks like someone's trying
to scare you is all.
Well, they succeeded.
I'll look into it,
but I don't think
you need to worry, ma'am.
It's probably some kids.
Do kids even live around here?
It just feels pretty isolated.
Yeah, you're right about that,
it is isolated.
But there's some farmland
that borders the property.
I'll ask around and see
if anybody saw anything.
Okay.
The place has a bit
of a history is all.
A history of...?
It's superstitious stuff
that people like you and me
pay no attention to.
But I'll check back in
if I find anything.
How long you planning
on sticking around for?
Just until Monday.
An ambulance is gonna come
take Ms. Ambrose
to the hospital.
Dorothy took ill?
No, Dorothy's away.
I'm looking after her mother.
Old Ms. Ambrose?
Yeah, that's right.
I thought she died.
Oh, no.
Well, she had a stroke,
but... still hanging in there.
[dispatcher speaking
indistinctly on police radio]
All right.
Well, I better get going.
Yeah.
-Good night, ma'am.
-Thank you for coming.
Oh, any time.
Have a good night.
Good night.
[insects chirruping]
[fly buzzing]
Hey.
What's your name?
My name's Elly.
You live around here?
[girl running]
[Beth] If you insist
on staying there,
then I insist on looking into
that Alma lady, for real.
She creeps me out.
Okay, and how do you
propose to do that?
My dad has this investigator,
I think his name's Novak.
He uses him only
in criminal cases,
but he's really,
really good.
You're serious?
Damn straight, I'm serious.
Just don't go too far
from that old telephone
and watch your back, girl.
[clattering]
[warbling noises]
[high-pitched whistling]
[whistling
and warbling continue]
[woman] Come and gaze
at his blaze of fire,
where winged embers rise
to kindling choir!
He is darkness.
He is whispers.
He is sweet
inside your heart.
He is heat, he is smoke...
he is fire in your throat.
[flies buzzing]
Dorothy, is that you?
My name's Elly. Alma hired me
to look after your mother.
I hope you don't think
I'm intruding.
[clatter, rattling noises]
[door creaking]
-[ominous soundtrack playing]
-[flies buzzing]
[monitor beeping]
Ms. Ambrose,
did you say something?
[flies buzzing]
[door slams]
[ominous soundtrack playing]
[mother, angrily] Eleanor!
I told you you could
never leave me again.
Do you hear me, Eleanor?
Do you hear me?
I'll always be with you!
No!
No! No!
No!
[sobbing]
[shrieking]
[Beth] So, what did
Novak find?
[man] It's what he didn't find
that bothers me,
a record of any Alma Whitelorn.
Maybe she's just
a family friend helping out?
Novak asked around.
Nobody's ever heard
of this Alma woman.
Far as he knows, it's just
Ms. Ambrose and a daughter.
-Dorothy?
-Right.
She's listed as
the mother's next-of-kin.
Look, pumpkin.
There's something else.
There's rumors about
this place going way back.
Now, I know most of it sounds
like old campfire
ghost stories to me...
-But?
-But...
I've never seen
my guy so spooked.
If I were you,
I'd pull Elly out of there.
He thinks it's
all kinds of wrong.
-Novak said that?
-Mm-hmm.
Fuck.
I mean shit. I mean...
Sorry, Dad.
[gasps]
Didn't mean to startle you.
Just paying a quick visit.
I'm Mary Lynn Crandon,
and this is my daughter Sadie.
Hi. I'm Elly.
Sadie's here to apologize.
So you were the one who threw
the apple with the note?
She meant well, but...
she just went about it
all wrong.
Apologize to the lady.
It's okay,
there's no real harm done.
Did you wanna come in
for some coffee or...
[Mary] No.
I have to run
some errands in town.
I'd be happy to drop you off
at the bus station.
What is she looking at?
[ominous music playing]
[Mary] A bad memory.
You've got no business
being here.
I'm a nurse, I'm here
to care for Ms. Ambrose.
I know something about
Ms. Ambrose that you don't.
And what's that?
She's dead.
Um... hi. Excuse me.
I'm looking for one of those...
Shoot, I don't know the name.
They're like
in all the horror movies
and like investigator...
shows, whatever.
They're like micro-- Oh!
Microfish.
I think you mean
a "microfiche"?
I have one.
I can show you if you like.
I would love that.
[mouthing words]
She's dead?
That's not possible.
What's in that back bedroom
is a demon in a shell,
nothing more.
That's enough.
I locked them up together
in hell
with the crucifix
I carved in her throat.
[whispering]
Your daughter is right here.
[Mary] That wicked Jezebel,
Dorothy Ambrose,
wants her mother out,
but the only way
it will let her go
is if it has a nice
young body to slip into.
That's where you come in.
Get out of here,
or I'll call the cops.
And I know your daughter
has my phone,
I want it back now.
She's no thief.
She only came here to warn you.
Why doesn't she speak
instead of sneaking around
leaving horrible notes?
Sadie.
[Elly] Oh, my...
[singing indistinct lyrics]
[Mary] The doctors said
it looked like her tongue
had been chewed off
in the womb.
I know that whatever did
the chewing is still in there.
Dormant.
I see it sometimes.
The way she looks
right straight through me
or when she's staring
off into space.
But don't think I won't be
ready for the day it wakes up.
Thomas...
my husband?
He gave into temptation,
just once.
But when he tried
to break it off with Dorothy,
she became fixated on him.
When he rejected her,
she had a breakdown.
She told her mother
that he'd been spreading
filthy lies about her,
and then she went
and ran off like a coward.
"Dorothy Ambrose,
pictures from..."
[Mary] So Ms. Ambrose
put a hex on Thomas
and his unborn children.
That's how Sadie came to be
one of the accursed.
What did you get
yourself into, Elly?
I'm sorry, do you really expect
me to believe in curses?
We were skeptics too.
Until our second.
Lily.
She wasn't as strong as Sadie.
Died a week after she was born.
[sighs]
Thomas blamed himself.
So one night
he came out here...
and he hung himself
from this tree.
Sadie found him
the next morning.
Froze pretty bad.
Oh, my God.
"He who is hanged
is accursed of God."
Deuteronomy 21:23.
I'm so sorry, Mary Lynn.
Well, I took my revenge.
Although we're not done yet,
Sadie and me.
Maybe you should stop now,
just call it even.
Even?
What if something
happens to Sadie?
What if you get
yourself arrested?
What kind of example
are you setting?
You don't have
a daughter, do you?
-No.
-Well, if you did,
you'd know there's no stopping
them turning into you,
sure as night follows day.
[sighs]
She covered her neck,
didn't she?
What?
Look, you can bury your head
in the sand if you want,
but mark my words,
we will burn down this cabin.
I thought you were
off tonight.
-I am.
-Okay, so what did I tell you
about getting yourself a life?
Yeah, still working on that.
Listen, if a patient
is checking into
a private room on Monday, would
that be in the system yet?
You trying to shack up
with the patients again, Beth?
Uh, fuck you.
No, I am checking
on a friend's mother.
So could you do me
a huge favor
and please just run
her name through the system?
I mean, I could,
but you owe me a margarita.
-Yeah, fine, whatever.
-Okay.
A-M-B-R-O-S-E.
Ambrose.
Yeah, there's nothing here
for the next 30 days.
[fire crackling]
[ominous music rising]
Eleanor.
[flies buzzing]
[distorted whispering]
You are my baby girl.
And I'll always love you.
You'll be my best friend
'til the end.
I'll never leave you.
When the night is cold,
I'll be there to warm you.
Every dream you had before,
we'll make them
all come true.
'Cause you're my baby girl,
and I'll always love you.
You'll be my best friend
'til the end.
I'll never leave you.
[monitor beeping]
Ms. Ambrose, can you hear me?
[ominous soundtrack]
[door creaking]
[line ringing]
Oh, no.
[woman] Sorry, this number
is not currently in service.
Shit.
[breaking eggs]
Shit.
[line ringing]
Come on, Elly.
[ringing continues]
[woman]
Please leave your message--
Come on, goddamn it!
[table rattles]
-[line ringing]
-Come on, come on, come on.
Answer the phone, damn it!
-[woman] Sorry, this number--
-Fuck!
You should just breathe.
[thunder crashes]
Dad?
It'll all be over soon,
Eleanor, just one more.
[hatch clatters]
Oh!
[faint, vague noises]
[soft creaking]
[garbled dial tone]
[beads rattling]
Alma, is that you?
-[phone chimes]
-Please.
[sighs]
Thank you,
little-fat-baby-jesus!
[monitor beeping]
[ominous music playing]
Ms. Ambrose!
Ms. Ambrose.
Eleanor!
[Elly whimpering]
After Daddy abandoned us,
at least we had each other.
But when you left too,
I was scared.
I couldn't survive
without you.
I had to bring you back.
You'll be my best friend
'til the end.
I'll never leave you.
[ominous soundtrack playing]
[screaming]
Hello?
El?
I brought your favorite.
[fly buzzing]
Eww!
[shower running]
Elly, it's me.
[laughing] Oh, my God.
How long have you been
in here?
I brought wine
to celebrate because
I was on my way to save you
from that crazy house
when I got your text.
I have so much tea to spill
on that crazy little bitch,
I don't even know where
to start.
[shower running]
Elly?
Elly, come on,
you're freaking me out.
[faucet handle creaks]
-[ominous music rising]
-[blade slicing]
You want to go downstairs?
[kicks]
[thuds]
[Beth vocalizing]
I know... I know...
Speak if you have
something to say!
[Beth] I know your secret,
you two-faced cunt!
[mother] You left me!
[demonic voices mocking,
laughing]
[vocal pitch lowering]
I'll never leave you...
[angrily] Where did you go?!
[mocking and laughter continue]
You're my baby girl!
[garbled voices mocking]
You left me all alone!
-Shh!
-[voices fade]
[blues record playing]
[siren wailing]
[approaching footsteps]
-[knock on door]
-[Green] Open up, please.
-It's Officer Green.
-Come in.
Look, it's not safe here.
Oh, you got that right.
Now, we got a tip that a woman
named Mary Lynn Crandon
is gonna burn this place
down tonight,
so I came here to warn you
and escort you into town.
Okay, great, let's go.
What about Ms. Ambrose?
Um...
she's dead.
-I thought you said--
-I know.
I know, I was misinformed.
She still back there?
Look, I don't know
what the hell that thing is
in the bedroom but I
was lured here for something.
-Lured?
-[bell chimes]
I thought you said
she was dead.
We need to leave now.
I'm not leaving
some old sick woman
to be burnt up in her bed
by some nut.
-Look, you can't go back there.
-[bell chimes]
You can wait out front
with my partner if you like.
[beads rattling]
Fuck!
Officer Green,
don't go in there!
Just wait outside.
Ms. Ambrose?
Ma'am, are you in here?
-[thuds]
-Oh!
[distant siren wailing]
[game sound effects on phone]
[groans]
-[Elly] Open up!
-Back away from the door!
Get out of there now!
[Green] Step away
from the door!
[Elly] She's not human,
you have to get out!
[banging]
Officer Green, please!
Please listen to me,
I was set up!
You have got to get out!
Please! [knocking] Please!
Just listen to me,
you have to listen to me.
You have to get out now!
[ominous music rising]
Officer Green, open the door
right now! [banging]
Please!
[Elly sobbing]
Please! [knocking]
What the fuck?
[screams]
[game sound effects playing]
Officer Green?
[slopping, gurgling noise]
[Elly gasping, whimpering]
[door slams]
Help!
[game sound effects playing]
-Officer!
-What happened to you?
Uh-- It's a long story.
Wait, where is my partner?
She killed him.
-Who?
-Ms. Ambrose.
I need to find out
what the hell's going on here.
Get in that house--
[Elly whimpering]
Beth?
Oh, Beth. Oh, my God.
It's gonna be okay.
[gasping]
I'm so tired. [gasping]
[ominous music rising]
Alma? What did you do?
[ominous soundtrack pulsing]
[fire crackling]
Alma, please...
Now, hush.
This won't hurt a bit, Eleanor.
Everything's gonna be okay.
[Alma] There, there.
All done.
Where is she?
Shh!
Your mother brought you here
a long time ago.
You were just a girl.
I gave you an apple.
She wanted to put a curse
on your deadbeat daddy,
but she didn't have
any money to pay with,
so she paid in blood.
Your blood, Elly.
-A curse for a curse.
-[thunder crashes]
My mother stored it
in the cellar
in case she'd ever need it,
but you destroyed it tonight,
and now I'm
calling in the debt.
You're out
of your fucking mind.
[coughs]
Your mother always knew
this day would come.
That's why she came back.
That's why she hanged herself,
to offer you up.
It's your fate, Elly.
Then why did you have to kill
Beth, you psycho bitch?
[Alma humming
"You Are My Baby Girl"]
It's a catchy song.
I can see why
you hum it all the time.
[Elly whimpering]
Wait, wait, wait! Wait.
Dorothy... I know you're
Ms. Ambrose's daughter.
You don't
have to pretend anymore.
I get what it's like
to look after a sick parent.
You were right, it's not easy.
Believe me, I know.
Listen, Mary Lynn
told me everything.
I don't blame you
for running away.
Fuck.
I lied to you about
why I was volunteering.
I couldn't handle
looking after my mother.
I was scared of her, I was
scared of turning into her,
so I ran way,
just like my dad.
I left her
when she needed me most.
And she killed herself.
I know your pain, Dorothy.
My name is Alma.
[screaming]
[chuckles]
[whimpering]
There's your friend.
In your face!
Always had an answer
for everything!
Well, I fooled her, didn't I?
[laughing]
Now, swallow her down!
[Elly sobbing]
[gagging]
[Alma laughing]
[sobbing]
This is a ritual
my mother taught me.
Are you ready...
to gaze into hell?
"Come and gaze
at his blaze of fire,
where winged embers rise
to kindling choir!"
"He is darkness,
he is whispers,
he is sweet inside
your heart."
"He is heat, he is smoke,
he is fire in your throat."
Ms. Ambrose?
"I invite you
to rise out of your shell."
"I implore you
to visit us from hell."
He is coming
for his fresh vessel!
[flies buzzing]
[laughing] Yes!
No...
What's happening?
No...
-What's happening to her?
-[flies buzzing]
[crackling]
[Alma gasping]
[low snarling]
Take her!
[shrieking]
You!
Curse you!
You tried that already.
[Alma gagging]
[flies buzz fiercely]
"Demon, O Demon,
take back now to part
well of flame
that floods the heart."
"Demon, O Demon,
return to thine host,
rejoin thine legion,
abandon this host!"
-[flies buzzing]
-"Retreat now, O Dark One."
"Scatter your ashes
to the winds."
"He's brightness,
he's singing,
he's the balance
for the blood."
"He is ice, he is pain,
he is lightning,
and he is rain."
[snarling]
[glass shatters]
[flies buzzing]
[demon screaming]
[blade clangs]
[demon moaning]
Let's go!
[snarling]
[mother] Eleanor!
Don't leave me!
[demon snarling]
[door slams]
Hey, Elly, I'm gonna
grab a coffee.
-Want anything?
-I'm okay, thank you.
You are my
Baby girl
And I'll always
love you
You'll be
my best friend
'Til the end
I'll never leave you
When the night is cold
I'll be there
To warm you
Every dream you had
Before
I'll make them
All come true
'Cause you're
my baby girl
-[screaming]
-And I'll always love--
[ominous soundtrack playing]
[Metallica] There's a devil
waitin' outside your door
How much longer?
There's a devil waitin'
outside your door
How much longer?
And he's buckin'
and brayin'
And pawin' at the floor
How much longer?
And he's howlin' with pain
and crawlin' up the wall
-How much longer?
-Oh, yeah
And there's a devil waitin'
outside your door
How much longer?
And he's weak with evil
and broken by the world
How much longer?
And he's shoutin' your name
and he's askin' for more
How much longer?
Give him more,
give him more
There's a devil waitin'
outside your door
How much longer?
Oh, yeah
Loverman
Since the world began
Forever, amen
'Til the end of time
Take off that dress
I'm comin' down
I'm your loverman
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
L is for love, baby
And O is for only you
that I do
And V is for lovin'
virtually all that you are
And E is for lovin'
almost everything you do
R is for rape me
and M is for murder me
And A is for answerin'
all of my prayers
N is for knowin'
your loverman's goin'
To be the answer
to all of yours, yeah
Loverman
'Til the bitter end
While the empires
burn down
Forever and ever
and ever, ever, amen
Loverman
So help me, baby
So help me,
baby
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
What I am
I'll be your loverman
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
How much longer?
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
How much longer?
With a tremblin' heart
He's comin'
through the door
How much longer?
With his strainin' sex
in his jumpin' paws
-How much longer?
-Oh, yeah
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
How much longer?
And he's old
and he's stupid
And he's hungry
and he's sore
And he's lame
and he's blind
And he's dirty
and he's poor
Give me more, give me more,
give me more, give me more
-How much longer?
-Give me more
There's a devil
crawlin' along your floor
-How much longer?
-Oh, yes
Loverman
Now here I stand
Forever, amen
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
So forgive me, baby
My hands are bound
And I got no choice
No, I got no choice, no
I'll say it again
L is for love
and O is for oh yes I do
-Whoo!
-And V is for virtue
So I ain't gonna
hurt you
E is for even
if you want me to
R is for render
unto me, baby
M is for that
which is mine
A is for any old how,
darlin'
And N is for
any old time
Loverman
I got a masterplan
To take off your dress
And be your man
Seize the throne
And seize the mantle
And seize that crown
'Cause I am what I am,
what I am, what I am
What I am
Your loverman