Hagazussa

Set in the 15th century Austrian forest, Hagazussa follows the story of Albrun, a young peasant girl who lives in isolation with her mother. After her mother's death, Albrun is haunted by supernatural visions and increasingly ostracized by the nearby villagers. As she struggles with her sanity and the harsh realities of her world, she delves into dark folklore and practices, leading her down a path of madness and terror.

Hagazussa was met with generally positive reviews, lauded for its atmospheric dread, striking visuals, and unflinching portrayal of isolation and madness. Critics praised its slow-burn horror and unique, unsettling tone, though some found its bleakness and deliberate pacing challenging. It is considered a standout in the folk horror subgenre for its artistic ambition and disturbing narrative.

• Praised for its intensely atmospheric and unsettling mood.
• Commended for its distinctive visual style and haunting cinematography.
• Critiqued by some for its slow pace and overwhelmingly bleak tone.

Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated 'Hagazussa' for its unique and deeply unsettling horror experience, highlighting its powerful atmosphere and artistic direction. Some viewers found the film excessively dark and slow, but the majority acknowledged its effective portrayal of psychological distress and folk horror themes.

Director Lukas Feigelfeld shot the film entirely on 16mm film to achieve a raw, period-appropriate aesthetic and to evoke a sense of historical authenticity.