The Witch (2015) - Review

Similar to mother!, this film isn't really a "horror" film. Sure, there are some genuinely scary scenes in here, but the film truly excels when focusing on the great characters and the dynamics of familial roles during the 1630's. Each character fails due to their failing of their role in the family unit or what society says their role must be. It's surprisingly deep, but what I think pushed me back the first time was that you are dropped right into the story. You aren't outright told anything, and a lot of the substance comes from the subtly in the writing and the performances. 

Speaking of which, I really understated them the first time. Ralph Ineson is FANTASTIC in this film, and his arc is so invigorating to watch. Same with Anya Taylor-Joy, who's arc I really didn't get the first time around, but it's much clearer to me now. No one in the film was bad, the weakest link for me was Harvey Scrimshaw. Everyone is praising his performance the most, but I think it is one of those "This child actor is horrible!! OMG he blew me away!" Just because a child actor isn't bad, doesn't mean they are automatically great. He's good, especially when take in the accent. Every actor pulls it off extremely well, but even so I suggest you put on subtitles, it helps you follow along. 

And as with the first time I saw it, the technical aspect in this film is top notch. Robert Eggers directs the hell out of it, the cinematography is beautiful considering they used only natural light. The production design and costumes are amazing, they clearly researched everything and you are never taken out of the period. Overall, a fantastic period drama with thematic purpose woven into every piece of the film from the production design to the character arcs.