Neon is set to launch the summer movie season with the release of Hokum, an Irish witch horror film directed by Damian McCarthy. The final trailer was recently released, showcasing the film’s psychological tension and eerie folklore elements. The story follows Ohm Bauman, portrayed by Adam Scott, an American horror writer who travels to a remote Irish inn to scatter his parents’ ashes. What begins as a reflective trip quickly turns sinister as he encounters ominous tales of a witch haunting the inn. Hokum features a supporting cast that includes David Wilmot, Austin Amelio, and Florence Ordesh. The film is scheduled to premiere in U.S. theaters on May 1, 2026, and has received early praise for its chilling atmosphere and effective jump scares.
Why It Matters
Hokum adds to the ongoing trend of horror films that explore psychological themes and folklore, particularly within the context of Irish culture. The film is positioned to attract audiences interested in the growing genre of witch horror, which has seen renewed interest in recent years. The success of previous horror films by McCarthy, such as Caveat and Oddity, further establishes a foundation for potential audience engagement. As the horror genre continues to evolve, films like Hokum may influence the direction of future projects, contributing to the cinematic landscape’s diversification and the exploration of cultural narratives.
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