One of the best films I've ever seen. Will watch again.

Rating: 9/10 (22 October 2016)

I'm a history buff and a lover of a story well told. This story, The Witch, knocked me out with it's incredible depth of historical and cultural accuracy, the earnest and believable characters, and the extraordinary belief system that they held on to as a psychic buffer in the face of such risk and courage.
The director wisely chose relatively unknown actors to give the story an almost documentary subtext. But the actors were all sublimely believable and wonderful to observe.
I worry that the way the movie is promoted as horror, witchcraft and possession will keep some away from experiencing this masterful creation. I'd simply characterize the film differently: A psychological thriller based on how the people of the time would interpret what's happening around them in the world. A true New England folktale, as it's tag line properly declares.
The Witch is the best depiction of the early Puritan culture and challenges I've ever seen. I will watch again soon to absorb more of the rich details the director, designers, production crew and actors created.
Bravo.