Folk horror, a subgenre that intertwines the eerie allure of ancient traditions with the chilling consequences of human nature, has carved a unique niche in cinematic history. Rooted in folklore and often set against rural landscapes, these films captivate audiences by juxtaposing the familiar with the uncanny, offering a window into the darker side of cultural legends and superstitions. In this list, we journey through a curated selection of folk horror masterpieces, each one showcasing the power of storytelling that bridges the past with the contemporary, and the terrestrial with the supernatural. Their lasting impact on cinema not only stems from their eerie storylines but also from their ability to provoke deep thought about humanity’s connection to tradition and the unknown. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best folk horror films of all time.
10. November – Rainer Sarnet (2017)
Set in a remote Estonian village where the inhabitants practice strange rituals and supernatural occurrences are commonplace, “November” follows the story of a love triangle that takes place amidst the cold, wintry landscape of rural folklore. As villagers grapple with both earthly desires and ethereal mysteries, the intertwining of their lives creates a web of intrigue. Laced with werewolves, spirits, and the devil himself, this film tells of a peasant girl’s desperate attempts to win the love of a young man, making deals with dark forces in the process.
“November” stands as a stunning visual achievement, with each frame feeling like a haunting painting come to life. The film blends dark humor with elements of pagan and Christian myth, resulting in an atmospheric narrative that captures the essence of folk horror. Sarnet’s use of stark contrasts, both in lighting and thematic elements, elevates the movie’s haunting aura. Rainer Sarnet crafts a world where the boundaries between the earthly and the supernatural are effortlessly blurred, leading viewers into a mesmerizing tale of love, sacrifice, and ancient magic.
9. Midsommar – Ari Aster (2019)
Dani, a young woman reeling from personal tragedy, joins her boyfriend and his friends on a trip to a secluded Swedish village to attend a once-in-a-lifetime midsummer festival. As the festivities progress, the group is drawn deeper into the community’s enigmatic practices. However, what begins as an idyllic retreat soon descends into a terrifying ordeal as the village’s disturbing pagan traditions come to light. The group quickly realizes that the pastoral community and its customs are far more menacing than they initially appear.
Ari Aster’s “Midsommar” is a sun-soaked nightmare, offering a fresh twist on the folk horror genre. Through disorienting daylight and unsettling rituals, the film explores themes of grief, relationships, and cultural alienation. The vibrancy of the setting serves to amplify the underlying tension, making every smile and dance seem eerily out of place. Its brightly lit scenes contrast sharply with its dark undertones, creating an oppressive atmosphere that lingers. Aster’s attention to detail and the movie’s strong performances ensure “Midsommar” earns its place as one of the best folk horror films.
8. Picnic at Hanging Rock – Peter Weir (1975)
On Valentine’s Day in 1900, a group of schoolgirls from an Australian boarding school ventures to the mysterious Hanging Rock for a picnic. As the day unfolds, three of the girls and one of the teachers mysteriously disappear without a trace, leaving the community in shock and sparking a series of investigations. This unexplained event becomes a source of fascination and speculation for both the locals and viewers. The eerie atmosphere of the rock and the vast wilderness surrounding it become central to the unfolding enigma, further accentuating the palpable tension throughout the film.
Peter Weir’s “Picnic at Hanging Rock” is a haunting exploration of the unknown. It masterfully employs an air of ambiguity and ethereal beauty, leaving audiences both mesmerized and unsettled. The narrative gracefully balances the beauty of nature with the inexplicable, emphasizing the thin line between reality and the supernatural. The film refuses to provide easy answers, instead drawing viewers into its web of mystery and atmospheric dread. The combination of lush landscapes and a haunting score creates a timeless piece of cinema that is easily one of the best folk horror films of all time.
7. The Witch – Robert Eggers (2015)
Set in 1630s New England, “The Witch” centers on a Puritan family that faces supernatural terror after being exiled from their community and settling on the edge of a foreboding forest. When their newborn son vanishes and their crops fail, the family begins to unravel, succumbing to paranoia and fear as they suspect their eldest daughter of witchcraft. As the isolation intensifies, the woods around them seem to come alive with malevolent forces, challenging their faith and sanity. The desolate landscape and eerie silence play significant roles, emphasizing the family’s sense of abandonment and increasing dread.
Robert Eggers’ directorial debut, “The Witch,” is a masterclass in tension and atmospheric horror. Every element, from the historically accurate dialogue to the unsettling score, works in tandem to immerse viewers in the family’s growing despair. Eggers utilizes natural lighting and minimalistic cinematography to create an authentically bleak environment, heightening the film’s grim mood. Eggers crafts a tale that feels both deeply rooted in its historical context and universally relatable in its exploration of familial bonds tested by external forces. It’s a film that respects its genre roots while offering something fresh and deeply unsettling.
6. Kuroneko – Kaneto Shindô (1968)
In war-torn medieval Japan, a mother and her daughter-in-law are brutally attacked and left for dead by a group of wandering samurai. Returning as vengeful spirits, they lure samurai to their deaths to exact revenge. The horror escalates when the son and husband of the women, now a samurai himself, is dispatched to deal with the supernatural threat. As the line between duty and family blurs, the emotional weight of his task becomes palpable, forcing him into a tragic confrontation.
Kaneto Shindô’s “Kuroneko” is a chilling blend of ghostly revenge and human drama. Set during a time of war and chaos, the film delves into themes of love, loss, and the irresistible pull of vengeance. The black-and-white cinematography adds an otherworldly feel to the narrative, heightening the eerie ambiance. The story’s layers of tragedy and horror are accentuated by the haunting score, drawing viewers deeper into the emotional and spectral world Shindô creates. Shindô’s ability to balance intimate human moments with supernatural terror ensures “Kuroneko” remains one of the best folk horror films ever.
5. Witchhammer – Otakar Vávra (1970)
Set during the infamous witch trials of the 17th century in what is now the Czech Republic, “Witchhammer” charts the horrifying tale of the persecution and torture of innocent women accused of witchcraft. These accusations, often baseless, spread like wildfire, with communities turning on their own out of paranoia. Based on real events, the narrative follows the cynical inquisitor Boblig as he exploits fear and superstition for personal gain. As the trials progress, Boblig’s obsession with a particular young woman named Dorota reveals the disturbing depths of human cruelty and injustice.
Otakar Vávra’s film presents a harrowing portrayal of mass hysteria and the dangers of unchecked power. By framing the witch hunts within a historical drama, Vávra draws unsettling parallels to contemporary events of his time. The characters, though products of their time, represent universal human flaws and vulnerabilities. The cinematography emphasizes the bleakness and despair of the era, with each scene crafted to enhance the film’s oppressive mood. “Witchhammer” serves as a potent reminder of the consequences of ignorance and prejudice, standing as a critical reflection on humanity’s darkest moments.
4. Kwaidan – Masaki Kobayashi (1964)
“Kwaidan” offers a collection of four atmospheric ghost stories, each derived from traditional Japanese folk tales. These tales span various themes and settings, from a samurai encountering his deceased wife to a blind musician performing for spirits. The vivid imagery and intricate details transport audiences to a time and place where the boundaries between reality and the spectral realm are fluid. Each segment immerses the viewer in a realm where the supernatural intertwines with the human experience, blending horror with moments of profound emotion.
Masaki Kobayashi, known for his keen visual sense, paints “Kwaidan” with vibrant colors and ethereal landscapes that capture the essence of Japanese art and theater. The seamless transition between tales ensures that the viewer remains engaged, feeling the weight of each story before moving on to the next. The film’s hauntingly beautiful score adds another layer of unease, accompanying the stories with melodies that linger in the mind. Kobayashi’s approach, fusing folklore with cinema, crafts a unique experience that showcases the breadth and depth of Japanese horror. “Kwaidan” remains a celebrated anthology, recognized for its artistic flair and profound storytelling.
3. The Wicker Man – Robin Hardy (1973)
When a young girl mysteriously disappears on a remote Scottish island, police sergeant Neil Howie arrives to investigate. A devout Christian, Howie becomes increasingly disturbed by the pagan practices of the island’s inhabitants. His encounters with the enigmatic residents reveal a world far removed from his own, pushing him to question the very nature of reality. As he delves deeper into the community’s secrets, he discovers a disturbing plot that challenges his deepest beliefs and fears.
Robin Hardy’s “The Wicker Man” is an unsettling journey into the clash between ancient and modern beliefs. The island’s isolation serves as both a physical and psychological barrier, emphasizing Howie’s detachment from the reality he once knew. The film’s tension is amplified by its memorable songs and rhythms, which lend a disconcerting atmosphere to the pastoral setting. With a charismatic performance by Christopher Lee and a shocking climax, “The Wicker Man” stands as one of the best folk horror films ever. Its exploration of faith, sacrifice, and societal values continues to have a strong impact with viewers, making it a timeless classic.
2. Onibaba – Kaneto Shindô (1964)
In 14th century Japan, amidst civil wars, two women live in a remote hut, ambushing unsuspecting samurai and selling their belongings to survive. Their predatory life takes a dark turn when they encounter a mysterious samurai wearing a demonic mask. The mask, with its eerie presence, becomes a symbol of the unknown fears that lurk within both women. As jealousy, fear, and desires rise between the women, they are confronted with the supernatural consequences of their actions.
Kaneto Shindô’s “Onibaba” seamlessly marries human drama with elements of horror. The swaying tall grasses and the ambient sounds of nature add an almost claustrophobic feel to the narrative, trapping the characters in their world of moral ambiguity. The stark contrast between the open landscape and the concealed intentions of the characters amplifies the suspense throughout the film. Shindô’s keen direction and the compelling performances of the lead actors make “Onibaba” a gripping tale of passion, greed, and retribution. It is a testament to Shindô’s brilliance that the film remains impactful, weaving a story that is both universally human and uniquely Japanese.
1. The Devils – Ken Russell (1971)
Set in 17th-century France, “The Devils” centers on the charismatic priest Urbain Grandier. Accused of witchcraft by a nun, Sister Jeanne, Grandier becomes embroiled in political and religious conspiracies. His defiance and strong convictions make him both a target and a beacon in a society rife with paranoia. As allegations escalate, the film sheds light on the corruption of church and state, revealing a tumultuous world where power dynamics and personal vendettas lead to tragic consequences.
Ken Russell’s “The Devils” is nothing short of a cinematic tour de force. With its raw emotion, bold visuals, and provocative subject matter, the film challenges viewers and breaks conventions. Amidst its controversy, “The Devils” stands as a powerful critique of the intertwining of religion and politics. Russell’s daring approach to storytelling, combined with standout performances from the cast, ensures “The Devils” fully deserves its position as one of the best folk horror films of all time. The film serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of fanaticism and unchecked authority, resonating with audiences even decades after its release.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best folk horror films of all time:
- November – Rainer Sarnet (2017)
- Midsommar – Ari Aster (2019)
- Picnic at Hanging Rock – Peter Weir (1975)
- The Witch – Robert Eggers (2015)
- Kuroneko – Kaneto Shindô (1968)
- Witchhammer – Otakar Vávra (1970)
- Kwaidan – Masaki Kobayashi (1964)
- The Wicker Man – Robin Hardy (1973)
- Onibaba – Kaneto Shindô (1964)
- The Devils – Ken Russell (1971)
