Witchy Wednesday: Movie Review - "The Witch"

Today darklings I thought I'd try something different. A special treat of some Witchy Wednesday fun, especially since, it is October after-all. A quick, little review of the "The Witch", which I'm giving a 4 Zombie Claw rating to.  Continue reading to find out why! Oh, and keep an eye out for Black Phillip.

 "The Witch," released in 2015 and directed by Robert Eggers, is a period horror film that stands out for
its meticulous attention to historical accuracy and its commitment to creating a chilling and atmospheric experience., taking place 62 years before the Salem witch trials. It tells the story of the devoutly religious and isolated family, the Thomasons, who are banished from their home and forced to live on the edge of a dark and foreboding forest. As they struggle to survive in this harsh environment, strange and malevolent occurrences begin to plague them, and they start to suspect that a witch is responsible for their troubles.

I found "The Witch" creepy with it's immersive and oppressive atmosphere which permeates throughout. The film's meticulous attention to detail, from the period-accurate dialogue to the authentic costumes and setting, transports viewers to the 17th century, which, had it not been there the film would just not have worked. The cinematography by Jarin Blaschke is hauntingly beautiful, capturing the stark beauty of New England's forests, and wilderness. The use of natural light adds to the film's authenticity and eerie ambience.

The film delves into themes of religious fanaticism, isolation, and the breakdown of family bonds. It explores the psychological and emotional toll of extreme religious beliefs and the fear of the unknown. "The Witch" is as much a psychological thriller as it is a horror film, with a slow and deliberate pacing that builds tension throughout.

The cast, father William (Ralph Ineson), a strict Puritan,  Katherine (Kate Dickie) a good and loyal wife, son Caleb (Harvey Scrimshaw) who has his own issues happening, the creepy twins Mercy (Ellie Grainger) and Jonas (Lucas Dawson), and finally Anya Taylor-Joy as the eldest daughter, Thomasin, whom the story mostly revolves around. The family's descent into paranoia and mistrust is convincingly portrayed, and the actors' ability to convey the characters' emotional turmoil is a testament to their talent.  

"The Witch" is a slow-burn horror film that relies on psychological horror and a sense of impending dread rather than jump scares or gore. The eerie score by Mark Korven adds to the film's unsettling atmosphere, and the supernatural elements are handled with subtlety, leaving much to the viewer's imagination.

"The Witch" has received widespread acclaim for its artistic merits, it is a meticulously crafted and atmospheric horror film that offers a unique and unsettling experience. Its commitment to historical accuracy and its exploration of psychological horror make it unique in the genre. If you appreciate thought-provoking horror that eschews conventional scares, "The Witch" is a must-watch.

Jonas, Mercy: [singing] Black Phillip, Black Phillip, a crown grows out his head. Black Phillip, Black Phillip, to nanny queen is wed. Jump to the fence post. Running in the stall. Black Phillip, Black Phillip, king of all.