Hokum2026

Much like 1408, a movie I watched for the first time last year and really enjoyed, this is a movie about a writer who gets trapped in a haunted hotel room. But the similarities kind of end there. Also, you know, unresolved personal trauma, but that’s part and parcel to the horror movie thing.  I, like probably everyone else, love to be surprised by movies. And this film is definitely surprising. From the opening that had me second-guessing if I was in the right theatre to the unsuspected mystery elements, this movie kept me on my toes. And every moment that would have me lean forward in eager anticipation was quickly followed by me shrinking and cowering in my seat.  I love Ireland. It is one country I truly long to visit. It perhaps more than anywhere else seems like a truly mystical place. One of my all-time favorite movies is The Quiet Man, John Ford’s love letter to the Emerald Isle. But this movie focuses on the dark and magical parts of it, woven into the very fabric of the island and its history.  The imagery of this movie is incredible and a huge step up for the director whose previous film didn’t really work for me. Every part of this movie, the look, the pacing, the writing, the performances, was incredible. Many movies like this could easily become drawn out and boring, and this was definitely never that. I can see myself rewatching this one a lot. And honestly, I think it’s my favorite of the year so far.