An unorthodox university physics professor (Jared Harris) uses controversial methods and leads his best students off the grid to take part in a dangerous experiment: to create a poltergeist.

Based on the theory that paranormal activity is caused by negative human energy, the rogue scientists perform a series of tests on a young patient, pushing her to the edge of sanity. As frightening occurrences begin to take place with shocking and gruesome consequences, the group comes to realize they have triggered a force more terrifying and evil than they ever could have imagined.