Witte Wieven is an atmospheric dive into gothic horror, a film that thrives on tension and mystery while delivering striking visuals. Set in a small Dutch village during the Dark Ages, the story centers on Frieda, a woman burdened with the blame for her inability to conceive. After narrowly escaping an assault by the local butcher, who mysteriously vanishes in the forest, Frieda’s safe return raises suspicions. The village begins to question whether it was divine intervention or something far darker that protected her, and Frieda herself starts to doubt where her salvation truly lies.
What makes Witte Wieven stand out is its remarkable ability to build unease without ever over-explaining. The film wisely embraces a “less is more” approach, letting the fog-drenched forest and unsettling atmosphere do most of the heavy lifting. Didier Konings, known for his work on major productions like Stranger Things and Tomb Raider, demonstrates his skill in crafting a visually rich experience. The dark color palette, exquisite set design, and unnerving practical effects make Witte Wieven a feast for the eyes, even if its story has no substance—which, fortunately, is not the case.
The film’s practical effects are a standout, offering moments that would make even Art the Clown proud, while the sparse use of CGI is handled with precision. The horror isn’t overly reliant on gore but instead lingers in the shadows and fog, heightening the dread. The influence of The VVitch is palpable, but Witte Wieven carves its own path, delivering a more direct punch with its unsettling imagery and brisk 61-minute runtime. The pacing is well-balanced, slowly building tension before quickly spiraling toward its chilling conclusion, leaving you wanting more.
The performances are solid across the board, with the cast convincingly embodying the oppressive weight of the time period. Frieda’s journey from devout faith to embracing something darker is subtle yet effective, and the audience can feel her internal conflict as her beliefs begin to shift. Konings skillfully transports us into this world of superstition and repression, making every scene feel tangible and immersive.
Though brief, Witte Wieven is a haunting, well-crafted entry into the gothic horror genre. Konings has demonstrated his ability to combine beautiful visuals with a slow-burning narrative that pays off in discomfort and dread. Dutch genre cinema is in excellent hands, and with Witte Wieven, Konings proves he’s a director to watch.
Jessie Hobson