Review – The Witch

The Witch made its premiere at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival.  I, unfortunately, was unable to see it then, which thoroughly upset me, as it was one of the more hyped films of that festival.

Now, a little over a year later, I finally got to see what everyone was talking about in Park City.  Had I seen The Witch at the 2015 festival, it would have been one of my favorites there.  This is a chilling, creepy, haunting film that could end up being a horror classic.

The Witch follows a simply ordinary New England family in the 1630’s who are torn apart by forces of witchcraft, black magic, and possession.

Director Robert Eggers really throws you into this world.  The production design and the costumes are as authentic and stunning as some big budget period pieces.  The actors, all of whom are basically unknown, give outstanding performances, as they are the entire movie.  Minus the first scene and some some quick parts, these six actors are the entire movie.  Without them staying in character and fleshing out their characters, the movie would have failed.

You never feel good watching The Witch.  Right from the get-go, you sit with an uneasy feeling in your stomach, just waiting for horror to happen.  And when the horror comes, it will scare the hell out of you.  This isn’t Paranormal Activity (2009) jump scares.  This is more like The Exorcist (1973) where the shock and sheer horror of the acts will startle you and stay with you long after the screening.  It is a disturbing and chilling experience and one you won’t forget.

The Witch reminded me of a horror movie Paul Thomas Anderson would have made, and I say that with the upmost respect, as P.T.A is a master of the craft.  The tone, the dazzling cinematography and the haunting score are all Anderson-esque, as are the scenes of violence.  There is a scene towards the end where I was waiting for the character to pull a Daniel Plainview from There Will Be Blood (2007) and yell, “I’m finished!” after committing a specific act.

The Witch builds tension from the beginning and doesn’t let go until the final, horrifying finale that will shake you.  This is one of the most unsettling, creepy, horrifying movies I have seen in a long, long time.  It is expertly crafted with some astounding visuals, and excellent performances.  This is how horror movies are suppose to be made.

MY RATING – 4/4

Did you see The Witch?  If so, what did you think?  Comment below or hit me up on Twitter @kevflix or on Facebook at Kevflix.