Tom's Guide Verdict: “Hokum”
- Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
- Verdict: Drawing on Irish folklore, director Damian McCarthy’s “Hokum” is a creepy story about a haunted hotel, and also an impeccably plotted mystery about a missing bartender. Adam Scott is perfect in the lead role as a prickly American author who confronts childhood secrets along with the supernatural terrors lurking at the rural inn.
- Where to watch: Opens in theaters May 1
It’s exciting to be able to chart the creative evolution of a filmmaker in real time, and that’s been my reaction to “Hokum” writer-director Damian McCarthy, who made his feature debut with 2020’s “Caveat” and has made substantial leaps with each subsequent film, while retaining his unique artistic sensibilities. “Hokum” has a bigger budget and a much more recognizable star than McCarthy’s other horror films, but what’s most impressive about it is the way that McCarthy has developed into an accomplished storyteller and visual stylist.
