Hokum is an supernatural horror film from Irish writer/director Damian McCarthy, fresh off the critical praise of his previous effort, 2024’s Oddity. I never really took to Oddity, it was good but nothing special. However I am delighted too say that, given a higher budget, production values, and expectations, Damian McCarthy has excelled, and delivered a movie that is well worthy of a supposed “Master of Horror”, placing him right up there with fellow Irish man Lee Cronin (Lee Cronin’s The Mummy is also out now).

Hokum see’s a troubled writer Ohm Bauman (Adam Scott of Severance, Parks and Recreation) who decides to visit Ireland and spread the ashes of his deceased parents, while staying at the (supposedly haunted) hotel where his parents once honeymooned. His arrogant ways alienate pretty much all the staff but for a porter named Fiona (Florence Ordesh). But when Fiona goes missing, Ohm takes it upon himself to investigate the disappearance, the haunted hotel, and the local weirdoes who frequent it.

It’s a pretty standard story, but done with enough skill and care that it manages to avoid any tinge of cliché. It’s not exactly The Sixth Sense in terms of twists, but it never becomes predictable, maintaining enough mystery and intrigue throughout to keep viewers engaged. I was gripped by the story, invested in the characters, and even felt unnerved, which for this hardened horror fan is a rare special treat.

After years of the usual CGI monster cliches (elongated limbs, roars like an animal, snapping movements etc.) its nice to see a visually unique antagonist, who remains consistently scary even after repeated sightings, which is a real testament to the wonderful character design. And what’s better, said “monster” is only one minor aspect of the movie, which delves much further into psychological horror, Irish folklore, and more, delivering plenty of scares while, and I’m only realising this now, avoiding gratuitous gore.

Hokum is a thoroughly enjoyable watch. A skilfully made movie that will please fans of horror, psychological thriller, and of well made movies in general (as long as your okay with the horror aspect).

4.5 Stars.

  • Directed and Written by: Damian Mc Carthy
  • Starring: Adam Scott
  • Runtime: 1hr 47min
  • Rated: R
  • Released:  May 1st, 2026

Review by Ross McCarthy, Dublin based screenwriter and stand-up comedian.

Hokum Trailer