“The Empty Man,” directed by David Prior, is a supernatural horror film that delves into themes of urban legends, cults, and psychological terror. The story follows James Lasombra, a former detective struggling with the death of his wife and son. Set in a small Midwestern town, the film begins with the mysterious disappearance of a teenager, Amanda Quail, and several of her friends.

As Lasombra investigates, he discovers that Amanda and her friends had been trying to summon an entity known as “The Empty Man,” a terrifying figure from an urban legend. According to the legend, the summoning ritual involves blowing into an empty bottle on a bridge, thinking about The Empty Man, and then hearing his footsteps. The legend claims that those who perform the ritual will be haunted by The Empty Man, leading to madness and death within three days.

Lasombra’s investigation leads him to a secretive cult known as the Pontifex Institute, which worships The Empty Man and believes in the power of thought to manifest reality. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a complex conspiracy involving the cult, the disappearance of Amanda, and his own haunting visions.

Throughout the film, Lasombra experiences disturbing hallucinations and eerie encounters that blur the line between reality and nightmare. He learns about the origins of The Empty Man and the dark forces that the cult is attempting to control. The film builds tension through its unsettling atmosphere, disturbing imagery, and a narrative that constantly keeps the audience guessing.

In the climactic revelation, it is suggested that Lasombra himself might be a manifestation created by the cult, raising questions about his identity and the nature of his existence. The film ends on an ambiguous note, leaving viewers to ponder the true extent of The Empty Man’s influence and the reality of Lasombra’s experiences.

“The Empty Man” is a thought-provoking horror film that combines elements of psychological thriller and supernatural mystery. It explores the power of belief, the influence of cults, and the horrors that can emerge from the darkest corners of the human mind.