This 96%-Rated Irish Gem Is One of the Most Underrated Folk Horrors of Recent Years

Folk horror rarely treats viewers to big hits, but the most enduring and unforgettable nightmares are born precisely in its quiet, viscous atmosphere.

Fréwaka, an Irish film directed by Aislinn Clarke, was the first horror movie ever made entirely in Irish. It's a profound, oppressive, and multilayered story about the collective trauma the Catholic Church left on the nation and how that pain is passed down through generations.

What Is 'Fréwaka' About?

Shoo, a professional caregiver trying to avoid dwelling on her mother's recent suicide, accepts a job in a remote Irish village. She is tasked with caring for an elderly woman named Peig who believes she is being hunted by mysterious creatures.

What initially seems to be a manifestation of senile delirium begins to overlap with Shoo's personal memories and evolves into something more profound: the collective memory of several generations.

'Fréwaka' Reimagines Collective Trauma Through the Lens of Folk Horror

The title, Fréwaka, is an abbreviation of the Irish word fréamhacha, which means "roots." According to the director, this word conveys the feeling of having heavy roots that are difficult to uproot.

This is precisely the feeling that Clarke sought to capture in her horror movie. Instead of directly exposing church orphanages, she uses symbols and folkloric images to connect the past with the present.

Clarke captures collective traumas and reminds us of the island's unhealed wounds. She does so in a way that leaves viewers with a sense of unease, even those born far from Ireland. While the movie doesn't directly address the Magdalene orphanages, every detail, every frame, and every word carries a hidden meaning.

'Fréwaka' Creates an Oppressive Atmosphere That Will Keep You Glued to the Screen Until the Very End

Aislinn Clarke has created a classic folk horror movie complete with all the usual elements: an abandoned house in a remote village and locals who view a stranger with suspicion, ominously warning her to return home before it's too late.

Initially skeptical, Shoo disbelieves the patient's stories about mysterious creatures, but soon begins to doubt the reality around her. Clarke skillfully builds suspense using a surefire formula: whispers in the hallways, nightmares, and a dark basement you should stay away from.

Even if you've seen hundreds of similar flicks, Clarke's work is captivating thanks to her skill of creating a chilling atmosphere.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Fréwaka'?

• Fréwaka has 96% from critics and 72% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 6.1/10.

• On Letterboxd, Fréwaka scored 3.3/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Fréwaka'?

Fréwaka is available to stream on Shudder and AMC+.