"Wouldst thou like the taste of butter and a pretty dress? Wouldst thou like to live deliciously?"
- Black Phillip, The Witch (2015)
Dir. Robert Eggers; Horror/Mystery, 93 Min
So where do we go from here? The Witch belongs to a small sub-genre of Horror called "art-house," which is quickly gaining popularity among fans. It is only one direction Horror could go, but worthy of our consideration. The Witch was well-recieved during its 2016 American release, but raised questions on whether Horror films can still be "scary" without the customary "audience-pleasing shocks" the genre is known for. After watching Horror movies from the last 50+ years, what do you think? Could "art-house" have a place in the next generation of Horror, or is it a fad set to fail?
Click the link below to take the general information quiz about The Witch.
In honor of Lucky No. 13, there is no assignment this lesson! Instead, click the link below to particpate in the final forum, and discuss the future of the Horror film.
Summary
In 1630 New England, panic and despair envelops a farmer (Ralph Ineson), his wife (Kate Dickie) and four of their children when youngest son Samuel suddenly vanishes. The family blames Thomasin (Anya Taylor-Joy), the oldest daughter who was watching the boy at the time of his disappearance. With suspicion and paranoia mounting, twin siblings Mercy (Ellie Grainger) and Jonas (Lucas Dawson) suspect Thomasin of witchcraft, testing the clan's faith, loyalty and love to one another.