Prepare for a chilling descent into the Irish countryside with the release of the official trailer for Damian McCarthy’s new horror film, Hokum. Set to land on May 1st, this unsettling flick promises a blend of ancestral dread and psychological torment, starring none other than Adam Scott.
Scott takes on the role of Ohm Bauman, a novelist seeking solace and a final farewell to his parents by scattering their ashes at a secluded inn nestled in the heart of Ireland. However, the tranquil retreat quickly devolves into a waking nightmare as the inn’s staff begin to spin tales of an ancient witch said to haunt the very grounds. These local legends, steeped in superstition and fear, begin to prey on Ohm’s mind, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. As the logline ominously states, “disturbing visions and a shocking disappearance draw him into a nightmarish confrontation with the darkest corners of his past.”
The ensemble cast surrounding Adam Scott is a formidable one, featuring notable Irish talent such as Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, Florence Ordesh, Will O’Connell, Michael Patric, Brendan Conroy, Siox C, Austin Amelio, and Ezra Carlisle. Their collective performances are expected to amplify the film’s pervasive sense of unease and escalating terror.
Hokum is brought to life through the collaborative efforts of producers Ruth Treacy, Julianne Forde, and Mairtin de Barra from Tailored Films, alongside the experienced hands of Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, and Derek Dauchy. The film’s primary production took place against the rugged and atmospheric backdrop of West Cork, a region renowned for its dramatic landscapes that are perfectly suited to a tale of folk horror and lingering darkness.
A Director’s Ascent
The man behind the camera, Damian McCarthy, is no stranger to the horror genre. An IFTA-nominated director hailing from Cork, McCarthy made a significant impact with his directorial debut, Caveat, in 2020. At just 39, he not only wrote and directed the film but also took on the editing duties, showcasing a multifaceted talent. His subsequent work, Oddity, released four years later, garnered an Audience Award at the prestigious South by Southwest festival. Hokum marks a significant milestone in McCarthy’s career, representing his foray into Hollywood filmmaking.
Adam Scott’s Foray into Fear
For Adam Scott, Hokum presents an exciting departure from his more widely recognised roles. Primarily known for his comedic timing in the beloved sitcom Parks and Recreation and his compelling performance in the sci-fi thriller series Severance – a role that earned him the Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Science Fiction/Fantasy Series in 2023 – Scott here delves into the realm of psychological horror. His ability to convey vulnerability and growing dread will undoubtedly be a cornerstone of Ohm Bauman’s descent into madness.
The release of the official trailer offers a tantalising glimpse into the unsettling world McCarthy has crafted. It hints at the claustrophobic confines of the inn, the creeping dread of ancient folklore, and the personal demons that will undoubtedly plague Ohm Bauman.
The film’s commitment to its Irish setting is palpable, promising an authentic and immersive experience for viewers. The natural beauty of West Cork, often a source of inspiration for artists, is here juxtaposed with the encroaching horror, creating a potent contrast that is a hallmark of effective folk horror.
Hokum appears poised to be a significant entry in the contemporary horror landscape, offering a story that is both deeply personal and universally unsettling. The combination of a skilled director, a talented cast led by Adam Scott, and a chilling premise rooted in folklore suggests that this film will linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll. Fans of atmospheric horror and character-driven narratives will undoubtedly be marking their calendars for May 1st.
Watch the official trailer for Hokum below:
