Besides Robert Eggers terrific “The Witch” in 2017 the horror nation has sadly been lacking in film productions revolving around the world of witches. Writer/Director Elle Callahan brings forth some new lore and a fresh take on the ancient sub-genre. Callahan attempts to mix old world legend with modern social commentary in this full-length film.
Claire is your typical down trodden teenager filled with angst and social pressure to fit in while searching for her place in a world where witch persecution dominates daily headlines. To exacerbate her problems, Claire lives with her two rambunctious young brothers and her mother Martha, who just happens to be an undercover sympathizer for witches and provides the mystics a safe haven in her home before they can get a ride through the border to Mexico. While the Mexican government provides asylum to witches, the United States has set up the BWI (bureau of witchcraft investigations) to hunt, capture, and contain those who are born with the gift and practice the art of it. When two young witches arrive at Claire’s doorstep her entire world is flipped upside down. Suspicious neighbors, coupled with an investigative team circling their community slowly leads to the family’s dark secrets. Claire befriends one of the young witches, Fiona, and begins to understand the true horror of the unfair treatment these special people are being subjected to, as well as finding her true nature. As the BWI closes in on her family, Claire must make a decision that will alter her future forever.
“Witch Hunt” is a very original take on the old sub-genre and themes of fear induced persecution. Callahan presents a well shot production and does well with the written word in this mostly dramatically filled plot. Young actress Gideon Adlon shines as the lead Claire, bringing depth to the tired characterization of typical downtrodden teens. The script brings forth some amazing new lore such as: shooting witches with salt filled shotguns, dunking young women in pools to see if they float (witches float they do not sink,) and using pressure devices to detect a supernatural presence. Sadly, these fresh takes are too few and far between, stumbling through a redundant plot before the viewer gets some much-needed quicker paced action. While the spoken word and performances are above average, the consistent depressing diatribe of each character’s miserable past blankets the plot points that brought allure to the film. “Witch Hunt” can be commended for attempting to put out some fantastic original material, but long gaps of irrelevant sub-text will leave most viewers spellbound with boredom.
Scream Score: 6.9/10