Review of “Rabbit Trap”: Disappointing Welsh Folk Horror Strands Dev Patel and Rosy McEwen in a Muddled Ancient Woodland Plot

British Folk Horror: A Review of “Rabbit Trap” at Sundance Film Festival

British folk horror has a long legacy, with roots tracing back to classics like The Wicker Man. From bonkers to disorienting, this genre has seen it all. Bryn Chainey’s debut feature, Rabbit Trap, falls somewhere in between with a creepy sense of dread and striking visuals that promise an intriguing storyline.

Set in a remote Welsh farmhouse in 1976, Rabbit Trap follows the story of Daphne Davenport (played by Rosy McEwen) and her sound recordist husband Darcy (played by Dev Patel) as they uncover dark secrets lurking in the ancient woodlands surrounding their new home.

The film explores themes of suppressed trauma, dark magic, and the otherworldly properties of sound. As Darcy’s night terrors reveal his childhood fears, the couple find themselves entangled in a web of malevolent fairies and ancient folklore.

Despite a strong start, Rabbit Trap struggles to maintain its momentum as the plot becomes convoluted and disorganized. The film’s atmospheric sound design and talented cast, including Dev Patel and Rosy McEwen, are not enough to save it from a lackluster script and meandering storyline.

Overall, Rabbit Trap is a promising but ultimately flawed entry in the British folk horror genre. While it may not reach the heights of classics like The Wicker Man, it offers a unique take on the genre with its blend of creepy visuals and supernatural elements.

If you’re a fan of folk horror or looking for a new twist on the genre, Rabbit Trap may be worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to deliver a cohesive and satisfying narrative from start to finish.



Source link