7 Folk Horror Films to Watch Before ‘Midsommar’

“Häxan” (1922)

Straddling the line between narrative and documentary in a way that few films have attempted, “Häxan” is the rare century-old horror movie that still feels fresh. An examination of all things evil through the lenses of various cultures, Benjamin Christenen’s film contains dramatizations of witchcraft that would fit in with the finest horror movies.

While part of the film serves as an almost academic study of what drives people to the occult, the horror elements and special effects make it an essential part of film history.  

“Witchfinder General” (1968)

One of the bloodiest and best known pagan movies, “Witchfinder General” is a brutal film set that toes the line between horror and exploitation. The story of a 17th century witch hunter roaming the countryside torturing women he deems to be witches, and those who vow to take revenge on him, the film is known for its unflinching violence.

But as time goes by, it’s increasingly remembered for its competent directing, and has aged better than many of its counterparts. Love it or hate it, it’s a definitive witchcraft film. 

“Blood on Satan’s Claw” (1971)

When children dig up a one-eyed skull, its unusual powers begin wreaking havoc on a 17th century English town. A quintessential example of a peaceful setting quickly turning evil, this is often referred to as part of the “Unholy Trinity” of folk horror classics, along with “Witchfinder General” and “The Wicker Man.” 

“The Wicker Man” (1973)

You knew this one was coming. Robin Hardy’s masterpiece has defined pagan horror since its 1973 release, and every subsequent film is measured against it. Telling the story of a police officer who investigates disturbing pagan rituals on a remote island, it is a cult classic in both senses of the word. It has always set the standard for folk horror, although Jordan Peele thinks “Midsommar” has usurped it. 

“Kill List” (2011)

A suspense film about hitmen gradually devolves into an NC-17 pagan gorefest in this film from modern folk horror master Ben Wheatley. Two former soldiers take a job as assassins, only to see themselves become the target of a sadistic pagan cult that lives in the woods.

What follows is not for the faint of heart. But then again, none of these movies are.  

“A Field In England” (2013)

Ben Wheatley’s second entry on this list, “A Field In England” follows in the footsteps of the Unholy Trinity by taking place in 17th century England. The only modern black-and-white film on this list, it features alchemy, hallucinogens, and yes, lots of pagan torture. 

“The Witch” (2015)

When their infant is kidnapped and murdered by a witch, a 17th century Puritan family’s life predictably unravels. The debut feature from Robert Eggers, who went on to direct Robert Pattison in this year’s “The Lighthouse,” was a near-universally praised entry to the genre.

Also set in the 17th century, “The Witch” is notable for taking place in America rather than England, and for its obsessive attention to historical accuracy.