A slow burn if ultimately statement making, The Witch is a superior thriller movie that deftly handles suspense and horror without falling back on cheap genre tricks. Seemingly inspired by the Salem Witch Hunts of 17th century New England, the movie not only remarkably recreates set pieces of that time but also creeps along as if time itself had slowed down. It’s a slow motion spiral down towards total insanity that would have you gripped in ambiguous narrative so that you are never sure what is being told or shown. That is underlined by the excellent actors who don on well fleshed out characters, even sticking to an old form of speaking english which adds to the sense of reality. The cinematography and natural lighting both indoors and outdoors pull you into the scene moment by moment. Never is there doubt that the characters are truly out of control of their situation. The direction and screenplay is tight, focused and economic, with no room to take your eyes off of the screen. And just when you think you know whats going on, the movie plants itself squarely in horror territory. At the same time, holding up a case for women’s liberation.
This movie is in a league of its own. Recommended for those not looking for quick fix, jump scares or gore.