PopHorror Let's Get Scared
When it comes to films about magic, I’m not ashamed to say that I love them dark. Below I’m going to share my favorites, but before we get to the list I would like to clarify that dark magic is not Satanic. It is defined as the use of supernatural powers for selfish reasons or malicious purposes.
Now, on with the films!
A Dark Song – Directed by Liam Gavin
A Dark Song Synopsis
A determined young woman and a damaged occultist risk their lives and souls to perform a dangerous ritual that will grant them what they want.
One of my favorite horror films of all time is also one of the most accurate representation of occult rituals on film. It’s a slow burn, but the high caliber of acting keeps it interesting. The two mains have a fascinating, antagonistic relationship that feels both ordinary and fresh at the same time. If you only watch one film on this list – make it this one!
The Witch – Directed by Robert Eggers
The Witch Synopsis
In 1630 New England, panic and despair envelops a farmer, his wife and their children when youngest son Samuel suddenly vanishes. The family blames Thomasin, the oldest daughter who was watching the boy at the time of his disappearance. With suspicion and paranoia mounting, twin siblings Mercy and Jonas suspect Thomasin of witchcraft, testing the clan’s faith, loyalty and love to one another.
Spare filmmaking and mounting paranoia make this a love it or hate it watch. it 100% love for me!
Impetigore – Directed by Joko Anwar
Impetigore Synopsis
A toll booth operator travels to her ancestral village in hopes of claiming an inheritance – until she discovers the unsettling truth about her past.
Indonesia is putting out some terrific films lately, and this one is certainly my favorite. Bloody, atmospheric, and well acted, this is Joko Anwar at his best.
The Skeleton Key – Directed by Ian Softley
The Skeleton Key Synopsis
A hospice nurse working at a spooky New Orleans plantation home finds herself entangled in a mystery involving the house’s dark past.
A more mainstream offering that still delivers by giving us a fun story cloaked in a spooky, sweat drenched gothic landscape.
Nocebo – Directed by Lorcan Finnegan
Nocebo Synopsis
A fashion designer suffers from a mysterious illness that puzzles her doctors and frustrates her husband until help arrives in the form of a Filipino carer who uses traditional folk healing to reveal a horrifying truth.
This one is another slow burn, but the payoff is big. The talented Eva Green helms this one, and it’s one that slipped between the cracks.
Blood Creek – Directed by Joel Schumacher
Blood Creek Synopsis
A man and his brother on a mission of revenge become trapped in a harrowing occult experiment dating back to the Third Reich.
This film delivers on the blood and guts for anyone who is looking for that too! It also features great early performances by Henry Cavill and Michael Fassbender.
Suspiria (2018) – Directed by Luca Guadagnino
Suspiria (2018) Synopsis
A darkness swirls at the center of a world-renowned dance company, one that will engulf the artistic director, an ambitious young dancer, and a grieving psychotherapist. Some will succumb to the nightmare. Others will finally wake up.
Yes, I know, I *normally* hate remakes. But this is a notable exception that takes the general idea and spins it into a new direction. An interesting, wild, and sometimes crazy new direction. If you are avoiding this one because you hate remakes, give it a chance!
Sleepy Hollow – Directed by Tim Burton
Sleepy Hollow Synopsis
Ichabod Crane is sent to Sleepy Hollow to investigate the decapitations of three people; the culprit is legendary apparition The Headless Horseman.
A sentimental favorite that features a nasty curse, spectacular visuals, and fun performances from all.
What is your favorite film featuring dark magic? Tell usin the comments!
