ROQIA

ROQIA

An unflinchingly dark and terrifying horror from Algeria

Modern-day Algeria. A respected raqi — a Muslim exorcist — is beginning to suffer from dementia. During his rituals, he forgets the sacred formulas meant to drive out demons. Sometimes he doesn’t know where he is — or even who he is. His apprentice fears that his master’s mental decline will allow demonic evil to triumph.

Intertwined with this story is the life of Ahmed, who, in 1993, emerges from a hospital after a car accident, his face fully bandaged. He remembers nothing of who he is and must rely on others to tell him. His own son doesn’t recognize him — and fears him — and soon Ahmed begins to fear himself. What caused the accident? And is Ahmed truly the hero of this story — or something far more disturbing?

Debut filmmaker Yanis Koussim has created a work that grips its viewers by the solar plexus. There are moments during “Roqia” when you may want to look away — but you won’t be able to. The film taps into a primal, ancient fear that humanity has long tried to deny.

“Roqia” is a stark, bone-deep work, set in a world most viewers know only from maps or news footage. And yet its emotions transcend geography and culture. Koussim paces his story with precision, gradually revealing its full meaning. When it finally all comes together, “Roqia” becomes unforgettable. A breath of fresh air — though one that smells demonic and musty — on this year’s top festival lineups.