Hokum (2026)

Beautiful, atmospheric horror in the same vein as Oddity, but subtly different. It isn't incredibly scary, and you certainly shouldn't come here for jump scares or gore, but the atmosphere is deliciously eerie and grips you. Clearly folk horror with a psychological twist.

Translated from Dutch · View original

After Caveat and Oddity, director Damian McCarthy continues the upward trajectory. This is an unsettling ghost story with a suspenseful plot, entertaining characters, a number of effective jumpscares, and above all, a great deal of atmosphere. It is also beautifully filmed; it is impressive how so much detail and nuance has been incorporated into a predominantly dark film. I lost focus a little in the last half hour, but fortunately, the film stays on track. I only missed the mangy, drumming bunny from Caveat, which popped up in a brief cameo in Oddity. Perhaps I missed it somewhere. Incidentally, there is once again a sinister rabbit-related motif present.

Translated from Dutch · View original

A reasonably strong psychological horror thriller. The story is well-structured and has multiple layers. The execution is more than successful. The build-up is good, and as a viewer, you quickly feel an underlying tension. The tension builds steadily throughout the film with the necessary jumpscares. The film features a number of very tense moments. The atmosphere is excellent: dark, fine camerawork, and a fitting soundtrack. The film features a number of 'fun' characters, and Scott delivers a strong performance. Another entertaining film from McCarthy. 3.5/4.0

Translated from Dutch · View original