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Hokum

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General Review

Parent's Guide to Hokum

Hokum (2026) is a supernatural horror film directed by Damian McCarthy, scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on May 1, 2026. The movie stars Adam Scott as Ohm Bauman, a reclusive novelist who travels to a remote Irish inn to scatter his deceased parents' ashes. He soon becomes embroiled in a mystery involving an ancient witch said to haunt the inn's honeymoon suite, leading to disturbing visions and a confrontation with his past. The film premiered at the SXSW Film & TV Festival on March 14, 2026, receiving generally positive reviews for its atmospheric folk horror, tension building, and effective scares. The movie is not suitable for younger audiences due to its R-rating and intense horror themes.

Things to Consider

High3

Violence

The film is described as a supernatural horror film with disturbing content and is rated R for "some violent/disturbing content." Reviews mention graphic violence and intense scary sequences. The narrative involves a protagonist, Ohm Bauman, facing a nightmarish confrontation, and the film is noted for its ability to terrify audiences.

1. Reviews state the film delivers "gratuitously frightening hotel horrors" and contains a "supernatural villain so frightening you may find yourself leaving the lights on for days after viewing." This implies intense and potentially graphic violent encounters. 2. One reviewer noted that the film is a "deeply chilling supernatural tale" and that "gnarly violence" is present, with the lead character, Ohm Bauman, being put through a "cosmic wringer, teasing a sort of hellish punishment for his 'sins'." Another review mentions an opening scene with a conquistador contemplating murdering his page boy, which hints at early violent themes.

Witchcraft & Occult

The central premise of 'Hokum (2026)' revolves around an ancient witch haunting a remote Irish inn. The film delves into Irish folklore and supernatural themes, with the protagonist, Ohm Bauman, encountering disturbing visions and a powerful entity. The film's atmosphere is described as "witchy nightmare fuel." This concern is central to the plot and heavily featured.

Scary & Intense Content

As a supernatural horror film, 'Hokum (2026)' is designed to be very frightening and intense. It is rated R for "violent/disturbing content." Reviews consistently describe the film as terrifying, with effective jump scares, psychological dread, and disturbing imagery that creates a pervasive sense of unease and fear.

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Medium4
ProfanitySubstance UseDisrespect & RebellionAnti-Christian Themes
Low2
LGBTQ & Gender IdentityRomance and Sexual Content

Additional Context

Best For Ages

Hokum (2026) is rated R by the MPAA for "some violent/disturbing content, and language." This rating indicates that the film contains adult material, and children under 17 require an accompanying parent or adult guardian. Due to its genre as a supernatural horror film with themes of witchcraft, intense scares, and mature content, it is recommended for audiences 17 years and older.

Good to Know

The film is described as a "slow burn" horror film, meaning the tension and scares build gradually rather than being constant throughout. Reviewers suggest that viewers should be prepared for this pacing. The movie's effectiveness is often linked to its atmospheric dread and psychological impact, blurring the lines between the protagonist's internal trauma and external supernatural threats.

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