But where did Black Philip come from???

Rating: 4/10 (23 February 2016)

So lets start off with saying this movie will not appeal to everyone. I saw it with my girlfriend who has become such a movie buff over the last few years that she now enjoys movies for the subtle metaphors and imagery where I still look for a great plot and close to flawless story. Once the movie was over and we both had a couple of days to let what we just witness marinate we both had two totally different opinions. She on one hand enjoyed it, where I felt it was just Meh. She liked it for the imagery, and bits of meaning behind certain scenes (I want to keep this spoiler free so feel free to see the movie if you want to understand what I might be referring to). I dozed off for a bit in the middle of it, but even with what little I did miss I doubt it would answer the question I left the theater with. Where I think many will get lost or bored will be with the old English dialogue, and constant references to religion which is needed since this is based in the 1630's and God/Family/land is what people lived for. What made this movie dull for me is that it seemed filled with useless dialogue. There were parts that I liked, but everything leading up to them really did not serve a purpose. I would have much rather have some back-story on the family, the Witch, or even where they got that creepy Goat known as Black Philip instead of just mumbled old English dialogue about god, and the hardships this family is going though in the now. Give me some story and some substance if you want to be considered a horror/mystery movie. The only thing I can say I really enjoyed about this movie was that there were scenes of suspense that could be considered chilling, and they didn't need to use any cheesy jump scares. If you love the horror genre I would say give it a shot, more so if you like to look for meaning in movies. Call me what you will but I think "Lords or Salem" portrayed the Witch culture/folklore better while giving a creepy and unique story despite the horrible ending, but that is for another review.