“The Witch” dropped at the Sundance Film Festival in 2015, and found itself in high status amidst the horror community. It was written and directed by Robert Eggers – his debut – and follows the trend of late 2010s artistically styled horror films.
I first watched five years ago, and thought it was okay. I seemingly disliked more than I liked. Now a more honed critic, I decided to give “The VVitch” another watch. Whilst still not perfect, I definitely appreciate it more.
It’s a folk horror story. The brooding atmosphere of 1630’s New England is on flawless display. The people are simple, and their lives as basic as one could envision. They are governed by superstition and ruled by fear. It’s a period piece, and you’ll find yourself fully immersed in its atmosphere with its dark hues and rustic settings. One minute in and I know for certain it’s not a place I would want to be.
A family is banished from their colony. They make new residence on the outskirts of a creepy wood. These primitive people live such a hard life, their mere existence is scary enough. Toss in the fear of something supernatural residing in the forest, some creepy kids, and we have our story.
The cast is excellent.
Anya Taylor-Joy stars as Thomasin, a teenage girl caught between the strict teachings of her puritanical parents and a typical desire for a happier life. Anya Taylor-Joy has gone on to star in several motion pictures and streaming series, but this marks her big screen debut. She’s excellent as Thomasin.
A modern viewer will sympathize with her daily struggles. Hard chores, tough parents, and the accusations of being a witch. The usual.
Ralph Ineson and Kate Dickie play the parents; William and Katherine. Both are recognizable from ‘Game of Thrones’ and both are perfectly cast as a pair of old school wards. Ineson speaks with a great voice, deep and gravely. He’s right at home amidst the terrors of a horror movie, praying fervently to God or hand wrestling the family’s horned goat.
Filmmaking 101
Robert Eggers knows how to create a film. The dulled colors of each scene perfectly embody the plainness and simplicity of the characters’ lives. The score is haunting. The presentation is both visually and audibly appealing. Eggers crafts horror without a single jump scare. He has since gone on the do “The Lighthouse” and “The Northman,” both of which I need to check out.
“The Witch” is the type of film that you can watch more than once. And will gain insight and better analysis each time you do. Many films from this era overstay their welcome. At 92 minutes it’s a perfect length.
My only complaint this time is consistent with before. There aren’t enough scares. I’m thankful for no CGI and no wasted jumps, but maybe one more chilling scene would have been better.
We’re closing in on Spooky Movie Season. “The Witch” is a great film to check out. Its unsettling nature combined with setting make it a fun vvatch.
“The Witch” can be rented on Amazon.
