The Witch (2015)

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 HALLOWEEN REVIEWS 2024

Writer / Director: Robert Eggers

Stars: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie, Harvey Scrimshaw, Ellie Grainger, Lucas Dawson, Julian Richings, Bathsheba Garnett



Banished from a Puritan plantation because of differing views on the Bible, a family tries to establish a homestead on the outskirts of a scary forest, not knowing that they have entered the territory of a witch.

 


As tragedy after tragedy befalls them, the blame falls increasingly on the teenage daughter Thomasin (Anya Taylor-Joy).

 


This atmospheric film establishes a masterful sense of place and a powerful buildup to its chaotic conclusion. 



The most unsettling horror is the breakdown of the family; their terror of the forces of darkness turns them against each other, forcing them each to confront evil in isolation.

 


Thomasin is methodically separated from her family, leaving her vulnerable to influence...which was perhaps the plan from the beginning. 



Robert Eggers delivers an impressive directorial debut, and Taylor-Joy shines in an excellent cast.


Spoiler alert!!! End of the film!!










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