THE CURSE OF AUDREY EARNSHAW is a new horror mystery about witchcraft in a devout rural community. As stated in the opening credits, the story plays out in 1973, which is so crazy since it looks like it’s 1873.
However, this is due to the choice made by the people living in this community. They want things to remain the same. But, of course, they never do. We screened this movie at Fantasia Fest 2020 and you should really check it out when you get the chance.
Even though I’m always interested in movies about women accused of witchcraft (when done right anyway), the casting of The Curse of Audrey Earnshaw is what really attracted me to this movie.
Especially Catherine Walker, who was simply astonishing in A Dark Song (2016). She is just as good in this new movie though in a very different way. In most ways, she is the voice of reason and the real heart of the plot.
Also, Hannah Emily Anderson plays another of the key roles in this new movie. After watching her as a total psycho badass in What Keeps You Alive (which became an instant hit when added to Netflix recently), I will watch anything she’s in. The movies or TV series (i.e. The Purge) she’s in might not be, but she always is!
Finally, I have to mention newcomer Jessica Reynolds who plays the title role of Audrey Earnshaw. She’s perfect in this role and I already look forward to seeing her in something again.
Thomas Robert Lee wrote and directed The Curse of Audrey Earnshaw, which is only his second movie. His first was Empyrean from 2016, but hopefully, we won’t be waiting another four years for his next film.
It’s obvious to compare this movie to The Witch but the two do differ quite a lot. I liked them both and while I think The Witch is a more solid movie overall, I think The Curse of Audrey Earnshaw will probably hit home with a larger audience.
Also, it’s pretty crazy that I even mention The Witch, since The Curse of Audrey Earnshaw takes place in 1973. The people in this story merely choose to continue living as though it was one hundred years earlier. That particular element really took me for a loop, whenever I remembered. In a very good way!
For horror fans, there is plenty to look forward to. One thing is the amazing audio and visual side of the movie, but also in terms of story and performances by actors. If you like the sound of the plot, then do yourself a favor and check out this movie when you can.
We screened The Curse of Audrey Earnshaw for Fantasia 2020. Release Date - 6 October 2020 (USA)The Curse of Audrey Earnshaw - Horror Drama - Watch
Plot
Young Audrey Earnshaw and her mother, Agatha, live clandestinely as occultists on the outskirts of a remote Protestant village. Having gone to enormous lengths to hide Audrey’s existence from the community over the years, in part due to her having been born in secrecy, in a context that would never have been accepted by the superstitious townspeople, Agatha kept her close and guarded at home. As a consequence, a controlling relationship has developed. One day, a mourner from town catches sight of Audrey, and whispers begin. The community has recently been left reeling from a series of inexplicable tragedies and hardships. Now, livestock and crops are falling prey to an unknown disease. Somehow, the Earnshaw farm has remained unaffected. Suspicions grow. Hysteria mounts. Meanwhile, Audrey’s upbringing around ritual magic has borne fruit. Her abilities are blossoming, becoming stronger and more forceful by the day. Alongside her anger.
