Movie Review: The Cursed (2021)
Synopsis
Set in the late 19th century, "The Cursed" is a chilling horror film that weaves historical intrigue with supernatural elements. The story revolves around a remote French village plagued by brutal murders and unsettling events. The narrative opens with the arrival of the enigmatic and skilled pathologist John Marshall (Boyd Holbrook), who is called to investigate a series of grisly deaths among the local populace. The community is rife with superstition and fear, believing that their problems stem from a curse placed on them by a sinister force lurking in the woods.
As Marshall delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a horrifying tale of vengeful creatures—a cursed clan long shunned by society. He discovers that these creatures are not merely figments of local folklore but have a tangible connection to a dark history that the village’s inhabitants would rather keep buried. With the villagers caught between tradition and the pragmatic approach of progress, tensions escalate, culminating in a terrifying climax that questions the very nature of good and evil.
The film is not only a gothic horror story but also a commentary on humanity’s primal fears and the desire for dominion over nature. Through beautifully crafted cinematography and a haunting score, "The Cursed" manages to meld dread and folklore with a sense of historical realism, making for a gripping cinematic experience.
Cast of Characters
- Boyd Holbrook as John Marshall – The pathologist investigating the strange occurrences in the village.
- Kelly Reilly as Charlotte – A local woman entangled in the village’s dark secrets.
- Alistair Petrie as Inspector – The skeptical lawman who doubts the existence of the supernatural.
- Rufus Sewell as The Count – A mysterious figure who holds information about the village’s cursed past.
- Amaris Miller as Young Girl – A witness to the horrors affecting the village.
- Diana Kent as Village Elder – The custodian of local traditions and folklore.
- Ania Bukstein as Mother – A character embodying the emotional toll of the curse on families.
Review
"The Cursed" starts with the atmospheric weight of Gothic horror, imbuing its setting with a palpable sense of dread. The cinematography is striking, with shadowy woods and desolate landscapes that evoke the suffocating isolation of the village. Director Sean Ellis expertly employs tension-building visuals, capturing the duality of beauty and horror, reminiscent of classic horror literature.
Boyd Holbrook delivers a compelling performance as John Marshall, embodying the rational yet tormented investigator drawn into the web of the supernatural. His character serves as an outsider’s perspective, questioning local beliefs while progressively becoming a part of the community’s tragedy. Holbrook’s ability to portray a range of emotions—from scepticism to despair—adds depth to the narrative.
Kelly Reilly is wonderful as Charlotte, whose journey intertwines with Marshall’s. She represents the emotional backbone of the film, grappling with the grief of loss and the chilling secrets of the village. Reilly’s nuanced portrayal elevates her character from merely a victim to a force of resilience against the encroaching darkness.
Rufus Sewell as The Count is a fascinating addition to the cast, providing an air of mystery with his layered performance. He embodies the enigmatic nature of history intertwined with supernatural elements, serving as both an ally and a potential adversary to Marshall. His interactions with the villagers offer insight into the psychological impact of the curse.
The supporting cast effectively fleshes out the sense of community within the village. The villagers are portrayed with a blend of fear, ignorance, and desperation, making their dynamics believable. The Village Elder, played by Diana Kent, serves as a voice of tradition, representing the struggle between old beliefs and modern understanding. Her character is pivotal in establishing the film’s central conflict, where the villagers must confront their past.
One of the film’s remarkable aspects is its approach to horror. Rather than over-relying on jump scares or gore, "The Cursed" builds atmosphere through psychological tension. The haunting score underlines this aesthetic, with chilling melodies that enhance the sense of impending dread. The film’s pacing is deliberate but effective, allowing the audience to absorb the layers of mystery and the history that haunts the village.
The screenplay, written by Sean Ellis and co-writer Imogen West-Knights, cleverly integrates elements of folklore while maintaining a focus on character development. The dialogue is often laced with subtext, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions on future generations. The film’s exploration of the curse serves as a metaphor for inherited trauma, making it relevant to contemporary audiences.
As the plot unfolds, the tension escalates, culminating in a harrowing climax that skillfully blends horror with moral intricacy. The revelations about the curse evoke a visceral sense of horror not only due to the presence of supernatural beings but also because they question the morality of the characters involved. It poses the question: how far will one go to protect their own when faced with a malevolent force?
However, the film is not without its flaws. Some might argue that the pacing in the middle drags slightly as it shifts focus between various characters and their fates. While this exploration is important for thematic depth, it occasionally disrupts the urgency of the narrative. Additionally, the film’s resolution may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied, as it leans toward ambiguity rather than providing a clear-cut conclusion.
Visually, "The Cursed" is captivating, yet occasionally the special effects can feel slightly dated, betraying the film’s otherwise high production values. Still, the practical effects work, particularly in depicting the monstrous creatures, adds a tangible horror that CGI often lacks.
Overall, "The Cursed" succeeds in craftily interlacing horror, historical themes, and character-driven storytelling. It compels the audience to reflect on the nature of curses—both literal and metaphorical—and the way they shape our understanding of good, evil, and the choices we make. For those who appreciate thought-provoking horror that eschews the typical tropes of the genre, "The Cursed" is an engaging and atmospheric film worth watching.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "The Cursed" offers a fresh perspective on horror, deftly combining folklore and human emotion against a backdrop of dread. With a talented cast led by Boyd Holbrook and Kelly Reilly, the film delivers compelling performances that elevate its chilling narrative. Despite some pacing issues and a resolution that might polarise viewers, the film’s strong atmosphere and thought-provoking themes render it a notable entry in the horror genre.
Rating: 7.5/10
