Hokum (2026)

⭐⭐⭐1/2

I don’t usually expect much from horror movies, but Hokum managed to surprise me. It’s not a groundbreaking masterpiece, but it’s a solid, well-crafted film that leans more on psychological tension than cheap jump scares.

The story follows Ohm Bauman (Adam Scott), a reclusive writer who travels to a remote Irish inn to scatter his parents’ ashes. The inn, located in the misty countryside of West Cork, Ireland, is tied to his family’s past — his parents honeymooned there decades ago. What starts as a personal journey of closure quickly takes a darker turn when Fiona (Florence Ordesh), an employee, mysteriously disappears. Ohm becomes entangled in the search for her, uncovering unsettling secrets about the inn, its locked Honeymoon Suite, and the folklore surrounding a witch said to haunt the property.

The plot unfolds at a deliberate pace, building tension through atmosphere and character interactions rather than relying on constant shocks. While the story is engaging, it does leave some questions unanswered. Most of the mysteries are resolved by the end, but the film only hints at the folklore surrounding the witch in the basement, leaving that thread frustratingly underexplored.

Adam Scott delivers a strong performance as Ohm, portraying a man burdened by guilt and grief. His character is not always likable, but Scott makes him compelling to watch. Florence Ordesh adds intrigue as Fiona. The supporting cast, including Peter Coonan and David Wilmot, does a good job of adding depth to the eerie, small-town setting.

The film’s setting is one of its strongest elements. The Irish countryside and the inn’s creaky, shadowy interiors create an atmosphere that’s both beautiful and unsettling. Cinematographer Colm Hogan captures the mood perfectly, using light and shadow to heighten the tension.

Hokum isn’t without its flaws. The pacing might feel slow for some viewers, and the lack of depth in certain story elements — like the witch’s backstory — leaves you wanting more. However, the film’s focus on psychological dread and its restrained use of scares make it a refreshing change from more formulaic horror movies.

Overall, Hokum is a good movie that delivers a satisfying mix of tension and mystery. It may not redefine the genre, but it’s worth a watch for its atmosphere and strong performances. If you’re a fan of slow-burn horror with a touch of folklore, this one’s for you.

Frank Gaimari is an author and film reviewer in Seattle. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. You can learn more about his work at www.FrankGaimari.com.