The Spanish Netflix horror film Phenomena follows a familiar premise, revolving around investigators exploring the paranormal, a creepy antique shop, and a malevolent demonic entity. When the leader of the group, Father Pilon, visits the shop and mysteriously vanishes, the rest of the team is left to unravel the shop’s enigmatic secrets.
The film claims to be based on a true story, a common trend in many horror movies nowadays. However, it is essential to approach such claims with skepticism as liberties are often taken to create an entertaining comedy horror experience. Phenomena features three main protagonists portrayed by Toni Acosta (Gloria), Gracia Olayo (Paz), and Belen Rueda (Sagrario), who deliver strong performances and maintain excellent chemistry throughout the movie.
Regarding its basis in reality, yes, Phenomena draws inspiration from a true story, but it is essential to recognize the exaggerations and creative elements introduced for entertainment purposes. Many horror films, including The Conjuring 1 and 2, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, An American Haunting, The Amityville Horror, The Entity, The Pope’s Exorcist, Audrey Rose, The Mothman Prophecies, A Haunting in Connecticut, Silent House, and Annabelle, have also claimed to be based on true events, making it a common trope in the genre.
Unlike some horror films that are adaptations of books, Phenomena is not based on a book. However, the Hepta Group, a real organization, inspired the movie. The film serves as an entertaining portrayal of one of the group’s most renowned documented investigations. Tragically, one of the real-life members of the Hepta Group, Paloma Navarrete, who served as the inspiration for the character Gloria Palomeque, the psychic medium in the film, passed away before the film’s release in 2022 after battling an extended illness. Despite her absence, her belief in the afterlife continues to bring comfort to her admirers and loved ones, who may still feel her presence in some way.
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