Aislinn Clarke’s latest film, “Fréwaka,” delves into the realm of Irish folklore and family trauma. The film follows Shoo, played by Clare Monnelly, a care assistant who takes on a new assignment in a remote village after the tragic suicide of her estranged mother. Shoo, fluent in Irish, navigates through the whispering townsfolk as she arrives at the home of Peig, portrayed by Bríd Ní Neachtain.
Peig’s hostile demeanor and cryptic warnings about mysterious entities lurking in the shadows set the stage for an unsettling experience. As Shoo becomes more entangled in Peig’s world, she grapples with her own mental health and unresolved issues surrounding her deceased mother. Mila, Shoo’s fiancée, urges her to confront these problems, while Peig offers advice on dealing with the past.
Clarke’s direction infuses the relationship between Shoo and Peig with emotional depth, as their initially prickly dynamic gradually evolves into a convincing intimacy.
Shoo’s journey through folklore despair
The setting of Peig’s dilapidated house emerges as a fragile sanctuary against the unknown, playing a significant role in the narrative.
“Fréwaka” ambitiously mines Irish mythology and history, exploring themes of national trauma and employing unsettling elements such as mummers, Sacred Heart lamps, and a mysterious goat. The film keeps viewers guessing about the nature of the threat, whether it is rooted in Peig’s delusions or something truly monstrous. The performances by Clare Monnelly and Bríd Ní Neachtain are crucial to the film’s success, keeping the audience engaged and uncertain.
Narayan Van Maele’s cinematography, Nicola Moroney’s production design, and Die Hexen’s disquieting electronic score contribute to the eerie atmosphere. “Fréwaka” is a psychological horror that grips its audience, never allowing them to feel a sense of relief from the existential dread. Aislinn Clarke’s ability to write and direct creates a tense, dark, and unsettling world that leaves a lingering sense of unease long after the film’s conclusion.
