The Resurgence of Folk Horror and the Blurring Lines with Psychological Thrillers
The film Hokum, recently showcased at SXSW, exemplifies a growing trend in horror: a return to folk horror roots, often interwoven with psychological thriller elements. This isn’t a new phenomenon, but its increasing prominence signals a shift in audience preferences and a desire for more layered, atmospheric scares. The film’s setting in Ireland, steeped in folklore and history, is a key component of this trend, mirroring a broader interest in utilizing regional mythologies to create unsettling narratives.
The Allure of Ancient Evils and Isolated Settings
Folk horror traditionally relies on the isolation of rural communities, the power of ancient beliefs, and the unsettling presence of the natural world. Hokum’s Billberry Woods Hotel, described as “untouched by the passing years,” embodies this perfectly. This echoes the success of films like The Witch (2015), set in 17th-century New England, and Midsommar (2019), which transplants the tropes to a Swedish midsummer festival. These films demonstrate that audiences are receptive to horror that isn’t solely reliant on jump scares, but instead builds tension through atmosphere and cultural anxieties.
The leverage of local legends, as seen in Hokum with the tale of a witch, is also crucial. This taps into a primal fear of the unknown and the power of stories passed down through generations. The film’s handyman slaughtering goats because they jump on guests’ cars adds to the unsettling atmosphere, suggesting a disconnect from modern sensibilities and a return to more primal behaviors.
Psychological Depth and Character-Driven Horror
Beyond the folklore, Hokum incorporates a psychological element, focusing on the protagonist, Ohm Bauman, a novelist grappling with personal trauma. This blend of genres is becoming increasingly common. The film explores how past experiences and internal struggles can manifest as external horrors, blurring the line between reality and delusion. Adam Scott’s portrayal of a “tetchy, rude” character adds to this sense of unease, suggesting a man already haunted before encountering any supernatural forces.
This focus on character development is a departure from earlier horror films that often prioritized plot over personality. Modern horror, influenced by psychological thrillers, aims to create a deeper connection with the audience by exploring the inner lives of its characters. This allows for more nuanced scares and a lingering sense of dread.
The Influence of International Cinema
The web search results highlight the increasing international scope of horror filmmaking. Sirat, mentioned in the review, is a collaboration between Deepa Mehta and Sirat Taneja. This points to a growing trend of cross-cultural influences in the genre. Filmmakers are drawing inspiration from diverse mythologies and storytelling traditions, resulting in more original and thought-provoking horror experiences.
Film festivals like the BFI London Film Festival and those listed on The Film Verdict’s sitemap (Berlin, Cannes, Venice, etc.) are becoming crucial platforms for showcasing these international horror films, exposing them to wider audiences and influencing the direction of the genre.
The Future of Folk Horror: Streaming and Accessibility
The review notes that Hokum is “pacey and involving enough to retain genre fiends watching once it hits streaming.” This underscores the importance of streaming platforms in the current horror landscape. Accessibility through services like Netflix, Shudder, and Amazon Prime Video has allowed niche genres like folk horror to reach a broader audience than ever before.
This increased accessibility is likely to fuel further experimentation and innovation within the genre. People can expect to see more films that blend folk horror with other genres, explore diverse cultural mythologies, and prioritize psychological depth over cheap thrills.
FAQ
Q: What defines folk horror?
A: Folk horror typically involves isolated communities, ancient beliefs, and the unsettling power of the natural world, often rooted in local folklore and mythology.
Q: Is folk horror becoming more popular?
A: Yes, there’s a growing interest in folk horror, driven by films like The Witch and Midsommar, and a desire for more atmospheric and psychologically complex horror experiences.
Q: What role do international filmmakers play in the genre?
A: International filmmakers are bringing diverse cultural perspectives and mythologies to the genre, leading to more original and innovative horror films.
Q: How are streaming services impacting horror?
A: Streaming services are making niche genres like folk horror more accessible to wider audiences, fueling experimentation and innovation.
Did you grasp? The term “folk horror” was first coined by critic Robert A. Heinlein in 1967 to describe a trilogy of British horror films: Witchfinder General, The Blood on Satan’s Claw, and The Wicker Man.
Pro Tip: When exploring folk horror, pay attention to the setting. The landscape and local culture are often integral to the story and the overall sense of dread.
What are your favorite folk horror films? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Explore more articles on the evolution of horror cinema here. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on film trends and reviews.
