Netflix’s newest release, The Deliverance, has sparked intense debate among viewers. While many films that divide opinions eventually fade into the background, this one is different. Some viewers find the film so troubling and disturbing that they are calling for it to be removed from the streaming platform altogether. Directed by Lee Daniels, the movie is based on true events, which only intensifies the discussions surrounding its emotional impact. As one viewer put it, The Deliverance is “the most demonic, depressing movie” they’ve ever seen.
A Divisive Film, Stirring Up Viewer Reactions

The Deliverance has quickly become the top movie on Netflix, but not everyone is celebrating its success. The film tells the story of a woman who claims that she and her children were haunted by shadowy spirits. While some viewers found the story gripping and intense, others have criticized it as excessively dark and disturbing. One viral post from a Netflix fan group went so far as to say: “Stop recommending The Deliverance! It’s 2 hours of your life you can never get back!”
In that same group, another person urged Netflix to remove the film entirely. Despite its popularity, many viewers have expressed that the film’s themes are too emotionally taxing to watch, with one user bluntly stating, “I watched it and I was like wtf lol.”
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Fans Debate the Film’s Emotional Impact

While negative opinions about The Deliverance are dominating online discussions, some viewers have come forward to defend the film. One fan in the comments section of a viral post said, “It’s inspired by true events. Sooo if folks can’t stomach the truth, it’s definitely not for them.” For these defenders, the film’s portrayal of haunting, shadowy spirits adds to its authenticity and emotional weight, creating a profound cinematic experience.
Others have echoed this sentiment, reminding critics that not every film is meant to be enjoyable for all audiences. “Sorry, but that is just your opinion, it doesn’t mean everyone else feels the same. People can watch whatever they want,” commented another viewer, expressing the belief that Netflix users should have the freedom to choose what they want to watch without censorship.
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A Call for Removal or Viewer Discretion?

The intensity of the backlash against The Deliverance has led to a broader conversation about whether movies like this should remain available on streaming platforms. Some believe that films with such dark, unsettling themes could harm viewers who are not emotionally prepared for them. One comment on social media demanded that Netflix “remove” the movie altogether, labeling it “demonic.”
Others, however, feel that the decision should be left to the viewers. As one fan put it: “Nobody forced me to watch it, and it gives me no reason to yell at other people.” This sentiment suggests that rather than calling for removal, viewers should exercise discretion when selecting films that align with their personal preferences and emotional resilience.
The Power of Mixed Reviews

Despite the controversy, The Deliverance remains at the top of Netflix’s charts, which indicates that the mixed reactions may actually be fueling more curiosity. Those who defend the movie argue that its ability to elicit strong emotions—whether positive or negative—is a testament to its power as a piece of art. “I was so excited to watch it, lol, wasn’t that good to me either,” commented one disappointed viewer, while others praised the film for its bold storytelling.
Some viewers appreciate that The Deliverance doesn’t shy away from difficult themes, adding depth to a genre that often plays it safe. However, even those who praise the film acknowledge that its dark subject matter makes it unsuitable for certain audiences.
Viewer Freedom vs. Content Control

At the heart of the debate is a larger question about how much control platforms like Netflix should exert over their content. Should they cater to the audience’s emotional well-being by removing films that provoke too much discomfort, or should they allow a wider range of content that challenges viewers, even if it isn’t universally liked?
In response to the criticisms, one user argued, “People can waste 2 hours of their life if they want to. It’s on them.” The film’s defenders believe that viewers should have the autonomy to decide what they want to watch, rather than having those decisions made for them by others.
Ultimately, The Deliverance remains available to stream, and its controversy continues to rage. Whether viewers avoid it or embrace it, the film has left a significant mark on the Netflix platform, sparking discussions about viewer choice, emotional resilience, and the fine line between discomfort and art.
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