Azrael
Written by Simon Barrett
Directed by E.L. Katz
Starring Samara Weaving, Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, Vic Carmen Sonne, Katariina Unt, Sebastian Bull Sarning
Runtime 85 minutes
Now playing in select theaters

by Tori Potenza, Staff Writer

Folk horror has had quite the resurgence over the last few years. With the popularity of films like The VVitch and the incredible documentary Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched: A History of Folk Horror, it is no surprise that filmmakers are gravitating towards the subgenre. Unfortunately that also means there have been numerous sub-par entries as well. Films hoping to regurgitate the same themes and symbolism back to us without anything new to say or any new life to add to it. While Azrael might not be the most thematically unique in the subgenre, it certainly breathes a new kind of energy into folk horror. While many similar films take more of a methodical slow burn pace, director E.L. Katz and writer Simon Barrett take folk horror and turn it into a non stop thrill ride.

Azrael takes place in a world where no one speaks as punishment for the apocalyptic events that brought them to their current state of disarray. A powerful cult is on the hunt for a young girl named Azrael (Samara Weaving), believing that if they sacrifice her it will pacify the evil that resides in the forest. Unfortunately Azrael does not plan on being taken in so easily. What ensues is a fast paced fight for survival as she tries to save herself and those she cares about from the dangerous community all while trying not to awaken the powerful forces looking to hunt down anyone that catches their attention.

Simon Barrett, long time writing partner of Adam Wingard, has brought to life many action fueled horror entries. His work on The Guest, You’re Next, Seance, Blair Witch, and others have showcased his signature taste for action film energy in the horror genre. Azrael is no exception, and since folk horror does not typically have this kind of energy it makes the film seem like a breath of fresh air. The movie does not have the strongest mythology or deep lore like others in the subgenre, but it gives us just enough to set the stage for a blood bath. It is pure entertainment in the best way.

Helming this project is horror darling Samara Weaving. Weaving has become a favorite with genre fans over the years because of her memorable performances in The Babysitter, Mayhem and Ready or Not. Her energy certainly matches what Barrett writes for the screen. Considering the fact that there is no speaking in this role, it was impressive that she can still own the production without a voice. She has a tough, gritty, never-back-down, vigor that has made her a beloved horror icon and she brings this to her performance. While she has the sweet and innocent face of an angel we are reminded that she can always hold her own against the toughest of challenges.

Bolstering the film and bringing more to the writing and lead performances are various elements like its synthy and dynamic score as well as musical drops which lead us through the treacherous and blood soaked path our character walks. Additionally, while not in it for very long, it has up and comer Nathan Stewart-Jarrett who gave a powerhouse performance in the film Femme. With his own style and energy we can only hope he becomes an icon of the genre like Weaving. And finally there are the practical and creature effects. The creatures are humanoid beings that are simply designed but it is enough to add to the terror of the film. And they help to bring us plenty of the bloodshed one might expect from a Barrett feature.

Azrael is not reinventing the wheel nor is it trying to create a deep mythology or social message. It takes the pieces it needs from the folk horror genre and uses it as the backdrop for an effectively violent and dynamic carnival ride. The genre-blending done here shows that filmmakers do not need to adhere to a certain type of style and pacing for a subgenre, and when they blend these various elements together it still creates something that feels new and vibrant.