The Witch isn't a typical contemporary horror, it is a modern classic in the genre. A vivid depiction of descending into madness and genuinely disturbing, everything about The Witch builds anxiety. The film doesn't have many overt jump scares, but, instead, leaves a haunting impression. Diligently true to its time period and centered around the dominant religious views of that era, The Witch touches on very real subjects and closely examines a significant aspect of American heritage. The supernatural elements loom in the background because they are accents for this tense look at devout households.
Meanwhile, this film is crafted perfectly. The writing is laced with complex themes and ripe for interpretations, yet the story is clear and concise. The music is deeply unsettling without distracting. The acting is downright astonishing because the foreign dialect is presented effortlessly and each character provides elaborate layers to digest. The visuals, editing, and sound design are expertly tailored to build panic, uncertainty, and despair. Natural overcast lighting, hypnotic cuts, and restrained sound all contribute to feelings of impending doom. Whether it's technical, intellectual, or emotional, The Witch is a tour de force from every perspective. A true work of genius.
Writing: 10/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 10/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 10/10
Score/Soundtrack: 10/10
Production Design: 10/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 9.4/10
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