In rural England, Lord of Misrule draws viewers into a world where ancient traditions clash with modern faith. Directed by William Brent Bell, this film casts a spell of unease from the outset. It follows Rebecca Holland, a newly appointed vicar played by Tuppence Middleton, whose daughter vanishes amid the fervor of a local harvest festival. What begins as a frantic search spirals into a confrontation with the village’s shadowy underbelly, where folklore isn’t just superstition—it’s a living, breathing threat. While the movie doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it still manages to evoke a palpable sense of dread.
The plot treads familiar ground in the folk horror genre, echoing classics without adding much fresh soil. Bell weaves a tale of sacrifice and malevolent spirits, but the narrative beats feel predictable to anyone versed in similar stories. The disappearance sets off a chain of eerie events, uncovering tales of a demanding entity that exacts tributes from the townsfolk. Yet, for all its buildup, the mystery unravels in ways that seasoned horror fans might foresee miles away. It’s a story that’s competent but rarely surprising, relying on tried-and-true tropes like masked revelers to propel the action forward.
Standout performances anchor the film amid its formulaic waves. Tuppence Middleton delivers a compelling portrayal of a mother torn between her clerical duties and maternal desperation, infusing Rebecca with a raw vulnerability that’s hard to ignore. Even the child actors hold their own, contributing to the film’s emotional core without veering into melodrama.
Visually, Lord of Misrule shines with its atmospheric prowess, capturing the haunting beauty of the English countryside. Cinematography drenched in earthy tones and shadowed woods builds a tangible sense of isolation, making the village feel like a trap waiting to snap shut. A chilling score punctuates the tension, with folk-inspired melodies that heighten the unease during key moments. It’s in these sensory elements that the movie finds its strongest footing, proving Bell’s eye for mood even if the script lags behind.
Despite these shortcomings, there are redeeming twists and scares that keep the experience engaging. A few well-timed reveals inject adrenaline, and the third act’s escalation delivers visceral payoff, even if it’s not entirely satisfying.
Lord of Misrule is a decent entry for a rainy night binge, especially if you’re craving atmospheric chills without high expectations. It won’t dethrone the folk horror greats, but it offers enough eerie vibes and strong acting to warrant a view. If you’re new to the subgenre, it might enchant; for veterans, it’s a mild harvest of horrors.
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