The Vourdalak, directed by Adrien Beau, made its North American premiere at the 2024 Chattanooga Film Festival after a successful run in Europe. Like a ghostly blend of Pet Sematary and Salem’s Lot, this French horror film is a spellbinding tale of familial love and creeping dread.
A Fable Carved In Fear
Beau draws upon the tale of the Vourdalak to tell a chilling story laced with modern commentary on patriarchal family roles. Gorcha’s journey to hunt down the Turkish leader who destroyed his village brings dire consequences for his family. He warns them that if he doesn’t return by 6pm on the sixth day, what comes back will be an accursed Vourdalak.
Marquis d’Urfé’s Journey Through Terrifying Landscapes
The film stars Kacey Mottet Klein as the Marquis d’Urfé, a noble emissary lost in the French countryside. Turned away by wary villagers, he seeks refuge with the family of Gorcha, who provide sanctuary against their better judgment. It’s here where Beau truly explores the horrific dissection of family dynamics.
If I should reappear – may God protect you – after the six days, bar the door and deny me entry, whatever I say or do. For by then, I will be none other than a Vourdalak, a damned one.
Handmade Horrors Come To Life
The Vourdalak’s hallmark is its handmade horror. Shot on film and employing vintage camera lenses, there is a tactile quality that enhances its chilling atmosphere. As Joseph Kosinski shared during a virtual roundtable session about his directing experiences: Yes, there are always limitations. For instance, Sam was initially supposed to battle four sentries… We ran out of time and weren’t able to shoot that sequence.
This meticulous attention to practical effects profoundly impacts the film’s immersive quality.
A Revival Of Classic Hues
The Vourdalak‘s narrative approach evokes eerie classics such as Dracula (1931). Its less-is-more storytelling coupled with playful camera angles reminiscent of Silent Era films integrates seamlessly with puppetry elements, making it an authentic slice of vintage horror.
A Unique Take On Familiar Tropes
The film forms part of Oscilloscope Laboratories’ growing collection championing unique artistic vision beyond mainstream Hollywood conventions; think November, Moon Garden, and The Love Witch. While it treads familiar ground, its execution offers something profoundly distinct.
A Tale Worthy Of Modern Mythology
If you ever lament that movies aren’t crafted like they used to be, Adrien Beau’s work rings true as an homage to classical horror filmmaking. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this thrilling fable at the 2024 Chattanooga Film Festival or its broader theatrical release starting June 28th.
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