DVD Corner

Hokum 4K UHD Review

“Hokum” is another horror tale from Damian McCarthy.  

Having previously helmed the highly underrated “Caveat” and “Oddity,” writer/director Damian McCarthy returns to the horror genre once again with his latest opus “Hokum.” This time around the story revolves around a broken and dismissive American novelist (Ohm) who is crippled by lifelong trauma in which he accidentally killed his mother as a child. He decides to venture to Ireland and visit The Bilberry Woods Hotel where his parents once had their honeymoon with the goal of spreading their ashes. It turns out to be far from a peaceful trip. Not only does Ohm attempt to hang himself, but he discovers the place is filled with dark secrets and legends involving a witch, a local (Jerry) accused of murdering his wife, a bartender (Fiona) who goes missing, a murder cover-up, spirits, and a haunted honeymoon suite. 

Damian McCarthy is fast becoming a new horror auteur. He never chases trends, but rather tells original stories with his creepy visual language. With his third feature, he delves into a haunted hotel story with shades of “Drag Me To Hell.” The script also deals heavily with the overdone trauma horror subgenre (which really needs a moratorium at this point). The trauma aspect definitely holds the film back a bit as the arc about an author with writer’s block and a mental block finding peace within himself in order to move forward feels a bit too trite. In terms of the haunted hotel portion of the film, it’s unsettling, but never quite spooky enough. You’re left wanting a bit more (much like “Oddity”). McCarthy’s slow-burn restraint is admirable, but sometimes it feels like he builds up a bit too much without a big enough pay off. With that said, there are still some memorable moments here ala the dumbwaiter sequences and the reveal of the witch.

Cast wise, this is very much Adam Scott’s movie. The actor is largely known for comedy films and dramas so it’s interesting to see him try his hand in the horror field. He gives a very layered and sincere performance that elevates the story.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? The picture quality is superb on 4K. The eerie lighting is particularly noteworthy.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? From the jump scares to the Joseph Bishara score, this 5.1 track is effective. 

Extras include a Blu-ray copy, a teaser and trailer, a commentary by Damian McCarthy, “The Making Of Hokum” (which features interviews, project discussions, film clips, and set footage) and “Jack The Donkey, A Family Favorite” (raw footage of the freaky children’s show host)

July 30, 2026 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Adam Scott, Damian McCarthy, Hokum 4K UHD Review, Horror Movie, Witch Movie