Italian
Aislinn Clarke’s ‘Fréwaka’: A chilling dive into Irish mythology
A new horror sensation
Aislinn Clarke‘s latest horror film, “Fréwaka”, has recently made waves by securing distribution deals in Japan and Spain. The film, which delves deep into Irish mythology, has captivated audiences with its unique blend of folklore and contemporary horror. The success of “Fréwaka” highlights a growing appreciation for intelligent horror films that explore cultural themes in innovative ways.
The plot thickens
In “Fréwaka,” written and directed by Clarke, we follow Shoo (played by Clare Monnelly), a home care worker who travels to a secluded village to care for Peig (Bríd Ní Neachtain), an agoraphobic woman haunted by the Na Sídhe—malevolent entities she believes abducted her years ago. As Shoo and Peig’s relationship deepens, Shoo begins to confront her own past horrors. The film also stars Aleksandra Bystrzhitskaya and Olga Wehrly.
A world premiere and linguistic roots
“Fréwaka” had its world premiere at Locarno and is a joint production by the U.K.’s DoubleBand Films and Ireland’s Wildcard. The film is shot entirely in Irish, with its title derived from the word “fréamhacha,” meaning roots. Clarke emphasizes the importance of language in the film, stating that it was always intended to be in Irish, and translating it to English would have altered its essence.
The allure of non-English horror
Clarke notes that now is an excellent time for non-English language films, particularly in the horror genre. Horror audiences are more willing to watch films with subtitles, as the emotional language of horror transcends linguistic barriers. This sentiment is echoed in the film’s reception, which has found an audience beyond Ireland while remaining unapologetically Irish.
Inspiration from folklore and personal fears
Clarke drew inspiration from local folklore and childhood nightmares for “Fréwaka.” She didn’t strictly adhere to any established mythology but instead infused the film with the dark tales of the Na Sídhe—Irish fairies known for their malevolence. Clarke’s family, known for their storytelling, passed down these tales, which were often embellished depending on the storyteller’s mood or circumstances.
The essence of Irish storytelling
For Clarke, Irish storytelling is about inheritance and reinvention. It’s a dynamic process where stories evolve with each retelling. This approach is evident in “Fréwaka,” where Clarke leans towards darkness but ultimately focuses on telling compelling stories. While not all her projects are straightforward horror, she acknowledges the genre’s universal appeal due to its emotional core.
A universal emotional language
Horror’s primary language is emotional, making it universally relatable. With ”Fréwaka,” Clarke aimed to tell an Irish story that resonates on a human level. The film’s success in finding an international audience while staying true to its Irish roots is a testament to this approach.
Are you ready to be scared?
“Fréwaka” is a film that promises to terrify and captivate. Its exploration of Irish mythology, combined with a contemporary setting, makes it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. If you’re intrigued, check out the trailer and immerse yourself in this chilling tale.
For more insights into the world of cinema, TV series, and music, stay tuned. Whether you’re a fan of horror, drama, or any other genre, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
