Folk Horror: The Witch

Description

This week Annie returns for our Folk Horror series, where we discuss Robert Egger's The Witch. We talk about Puritanism, Calvinism, patriarchies, feminism, family dynamics, historical cinema, gender roles, adolescence, witches and possession, desire, witchcraft, Charlie the Goat and Charles Manson, and films like Wicker Man, Hereditary, and the Shining.

Show Notes

The film 'The Witch' is deeply rooted in historical accuracy and Puritan beliefs.
Robert Eggers spent years researching 17th-century diaries and trial records for the film.
The dialogue in 'The Witch' is derived from period sources, enhancing its authenticity.
The film's cinematography uses natural lighting and desaturated tones to evoke a historical feel.
The themes of Calvinism and predestination are central to the film's narrative.
Family dynamics and the tension between parents and children are explored in depth.
The disappearance of Baby Samuel serves as a pivotal plot point that escalates family tensions.
Caleb's character represents the struggle between innocence and temptation.
The film addresses the complexities of gender roles and adolescence.
The climax of the film highlights the consequences of choices made by the characters. The forbidden fruit symbolizes temptation and desire.
Family dynamics play a crucial role in the narrative.
Black Phillip represents the devil and temptation.
Thomasin's struggles reflect societal expectations of women.
The collapse of the family structure is central to the story.
Supernatural elements amplify the family's disintegration.
The final confrontation is a pivotal moment for Thomasin.
Desire and agency are explored through Thomasin's choices.
The film critiques patriarchy and religious fanaticism.
Isolation leads to tragic outcomes for the family.

Summary

In this conversation, Annie and Kelley delve into the film 'The Witch' directed by Robert Eggers, exploring its historical context, production techniques, and thematic elements. They discuss the film's portrayal of Puritanism, family dynamics, and the tension between innocence and temptation, particularly through the characters of Thomasin and Caleb. The conversation highlights the film's authenticity, its exploration of gender roles, and the consequences of choices made by the characters, culminating in a rich analysis of this folk horror film. In this conversation, Kelley and Annie delve into the themes of 'The Witch,' exploring the dynamics of family, temptation, and the supernatural. They discuss the character of Black Phillip, the implications of accusations of witchcraft, and the collapse of family structures under pressure. The conversation also touches on the critique of patriarchy, the role of desire, and the ultimate transformation of Thomasin as she makes a pact with the devil. Through their analysis, they highlight the film's commentary on isolation, agency, and the consequences of fanaticism.

Sound Bites

"Get thee some coffee!"
"It's a very large goat."

Chapters