Lee Daniels’ latest horror film, The Deliverance, is captivating viewers with its terrifying storyline and gripping performances by Andra Day, Glenn Close, and Mo’Nique. The movie portrays a family’s chilling experiences with what appears to be demonic forces, but these terrifying events are not purely fictional.
They are based on the real-life story of Latoya Ammons and her family’s horrifying experiences in Gary, Indiana. So, how much of the film is true, and what actually happened inside this so-called “Demon House”?
A Family’s Nightmare Begins
In 2011, Latoya Ammons, her three children, and her mother, Rosa Campbell, moved into a rental house on Carolina Street in Gary, Indiana. Almost immediately, the family noticed unusual occurrences. Despite the cold winter, swarms of black flies covered the porch, and eerie footsteps echoed through the house when no one was there. One night, Campbell witnessed a shadowy figure pacing in the living room, leaving wet bootprints behind. However, these eerie sightings were only the beginning.
Things escalated one night when Ammons discovered her 12-year-old daughter levitating above her bed, unconscious. Terrified, Ammons and her family prayed until the girl finally returned to the bed. This incident marked the start of a series of strange and disturbing events that would soon spiral out of control.
Unexplainable Behavior and a Shocking Incident
As time went on, Ammons and her children began exhibiting alarming behavior. Their eyes bulged, their voices took on deep, unnatural tones, and they displayed unusual strength. Even more terrifying, Ammons’ seven-year-old son tried to strangle his older brother.
These events weren’t just confined to the house. Outside of it, strange incidents continued, leading to the hospitalization of Ammons’ two sons. In a particularly shocking event, a Department of Child Services case manager and a nurse witnessed Ammons’ nine-year-old son walking backward up a wall before flipping over and landing on his feet. This impossible act left them stunned and raised concerns about the safety of the children, leading to their removal from Ammons’ custody.
Seeking Help from the Church
Despite undergoing multiple medical evaluations, doctors and psychiatrists were unable to explain the family’s experiences. One psychiatrist confirmed that Ammons was of sound mind, further deepening the mystery. Desperate for help, Ammons turned to Reverend Michael Maginot, a local priest, for assistance.
Reverend Maginot, convinced of a supernatural presence, conducted three exorcisms on Ammons, two in English and one in Latin. These rituals followed strict guidelines set by the Catholic Church and were performed with permission from the local bishop, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Finding Relief and Moving Forward
After the exorcisms, Ammons reported some relief. Interestingly, she also moved her family to Indianapolis, which may have contributed to the end of their paranormal encounters. Six months later, Ammons regained custody of her children, and by 2014, the family was living free from fear.
Their story, however, continued to intrigue the public, especially after Zak Bagans, a well-known paranormal investigator, purchased the house and documented his experiences there before deciding to demolish it in 2016.
A Haunting Legacy
Ammons’ story remains one of the most detailed and controversial cases of alleged demonic possession. The original events were extensively reported by journalist Marisa Kwiatkowski in a 2014 Indianapolis Star article, which brought national attention to the family’s ordeal.
Now, with The Deliverance, these real-life horrors are reaching an even broader audience. The film blurs the line between reality and fiction, prompting viewers to question what they believe about the supernatural.
A Tale of Real-Life Horror
The Deliverance is not just another horror film. It’s a story that reflects real-life fears and the power of the unknown. The film’s portrayal of Latoya Ammons’ experiences forces us to confront our own beliefs about good and evil, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll.
Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, the events depicted in The Deliverance and the true story behind them will continue to haunt those who hear them, reminding us that sometimes, reality is scarier than fiction.
The chilling tale of the “Demon House” challenges our understanding of the paranormal and the unexplained. With The Deliverance, Lee Daniels has brought a real-life nightmare to the screen, ensuring that the haunting legacy of Latoya Ammons and her family will endure.
