Is Possessor Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Possessor is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 103 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Possessor Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2020, Possessor emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Thriller, Science Fiction domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Tasya Vos, an elite corporate assassin, uses brain-implant technology to take control of other people’s bodies to terminate high profile targets. Unlike standard genre fare, Possessor attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Possessor features a noteworthy lineup led by Andrea Riseborough . Supported by the likes of Christopher Abbott and Jennifer Jason Leigh , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Possessor (2020) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.4/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Possessor Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Possessor is a Horror, Thriller, Science Fiction film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. Tasya Vos, an elite corporate assassin, uses brain-implant technology to take control of other people’s bodies to terminate high profile targets. As she sinks deeper into her latest assignment, Vos becomes trapped inside a mind that threatens to obliterate her. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Possessor Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Possessor concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Possessor reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Possessor?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Horror films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a few scares and creepy atmosphere
Possessor Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $2.5M |
| Worldwide Gross | $911.0K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Possessor Budget
The estimated production budget for Possessor is $2.5M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Possessor
- Andrea Riseborough – Tasya Vos
- Christopher Abbott – Colin Tate
- Jennifer Jason Leigh – Girder
- Sean Bean – John Parse
- Tuppence Middleton – Ava Parse
Top Highlights
Andrea RiseboroughTasya Vos
Christopher AbbottColin Tate
Jennifer Jason LeighGirder
Sean BeanJohn Parse
Tuppence MiddletonAva Parse
Rossif SutherlandMichael Vos
Kaniehtiio HornReeta
Raoul BhanejaEddie
Gage Graham-ArbuthnotIra Vos
Gabrielle GrahamHolly
Where to Watch Possessor Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
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Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Possessor is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, Possessor stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2020 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Possessor movie hit or flop?
Possessor has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Possessor worth watching?
Possessor is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Thriller, Science Fiction movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Possessor online?
Possessor may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Possessor Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Possessor
The Cronenberg name is tightly associated with the body horror genre, and rightfully so. 'Possessor' feels like a fever dream, delivering unsettling violence, thought-provoking creativity and remorseless direction. Its revelations about the monsters within, summed up in its shockingly grim climax, have a lasting resonance. - Jake Watt Read Jake's full article... https://www.maketheswitch.com.au/article/review-possessor-engrossingly-gross-cronenbergian-body-horror
I just wrote a review about how mainstream critics don't "get" horror, elevating attempts at filmmaking "art" over the basics that horror fans love. "Possessor" is an exception where critics (72 Metacritic Score) and users (7.6 Metacritic Score) agree that it's a pretty damn good flick. The acting is excellent. Andrea Riseborough from "Mandy" is creepy odd (again) as a mind-possessing assassin, and Christopher Abbott from "It Comes at Night" is a depressed AND possessed soul for the next assassination. There are too many adjectives to list to give the film justice, so here's just a few: disturbing, violent, bloody, mind-bending, visual, provocative, While Brandon Cronenberg may have a similar interest in melding technology and horror as his father David Cronenberg, he is introducing his own style and originality. Very much like like Joe Hill has done with father Stephen King. All of which is nothing but a bonus for horror fans.
If you enjoy reading my Spoiler-Free reviews, please follow my blog @ https://www.msbreviews.com In a year where the horror genre didn't have that many great representatives, Brandon Cronenberg's remarkably captivating concept is an instant attention-grabber. Boasting two phenomenal performances from Andrea Riseborough and Christopher Abbott (Colin Tate), Possessor is one of the most visually shocking films of 2020. From the extreme gore to the unrestrained depiction of insanely violent murders, Cronenberg fills his movie with creepy imagery that will definitely trigger many viewers to simply give up. Its slow pace helps establish the never-ending suspenseful atmosphere, which ultimately delivers some of the most intense sequences I've seen in a long time. Despite the interesting narrative and its eye-opening developments, Possessor fails to keep the momentum going throughout the entire runtime. The weird imagery helps with visual storytelling, but it reaches a point where it becomes too distracting and unnecessary. The third act is also quite predictable, contrasting with the somewhat surprising first half. In the end, it's still one of my favorite horror films of the year. Rating: B+
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