The Wailing

Film Review

This was quite a strange film. I didn’t know what to expect and even while watching it I really didn’t know what to make of it.

This film was too long for a horror in my opinion. It didn’t drag as much as I thought it would after being mortified to discover the 2 hours and 37 minutes runtime, but I feel it could have really benefitted from being trimmed down by half an hour or so.

The performances were decent all round and I was intrigued by the characters. In particular, I really liked all of the scenes with the Shaman and the Japanese man. Of course, the standout scene was that exorcism ritual! It had everything: snazzy outfits, an array of sacrificial animals and a wicked drum beat. It reminded me a little of the film Midsommar with these pagan-like characteristics. Come to think of it, that was another horror that was too long – but I’d have to say I enjoyed it more than this film overall. One day I’ll attempt the Midsommar director’s cut which is about 3 hours long.

Honestly, I could have watched this ritual go on for an hour or more, but unfortunately, it’s all cut short when the father goes apeshit and starts smashing everything up. However, this was also very entertaining to behold.

I like the way the film keeps you guessing and changing your mind about who is good and who is evil. To be honest, I’m still not quite sure who/what that woman in white was supposed to be. This film was certainly an experience, although I won’t be rushing to see it again.

3 Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoats out of 5