A new supernatural thriller set in the vibrant heart of New Orleans weaves a tale of ancient curses and modern ambition, finding its pulse in a magnetic, villainous performance.
The film centers on a young couple, Emily and Christian, whose lives are upended after discovering an antique divination board in the bayou. The aspiring restaurateur and his partner inadvertently channel the tormented spirit of a centuries-old French sorceress, plunging Emily into violent, inexplicable visions of a past not her own. Their tense dynamic is further complicated by the arrival of a provocative figure from Christian’s history, who encourages a fateful séance.
While the core plot of haunted newcomers can feel familiar, the production is elevated by a scene-stealing turn from a rising genre star. Playing a mysterious antiquarian with ominous intent, the actor commands every frame with a chilling, aristocratic menace. His delivery and arresting screen presence evoke the classic horror icons of yesteryear, offering a compelling anchor of gothic style and sinister charm.
Outside these electrifying moments, the narrative occasionally slips into more conventional territory, following its beleaguered protagonists as they grapple with the escalating supernatural chaos. The authentic backdrop of a fledgling New Orleans kitchen provides a gritty, tangible counterpoint to the occult happenings. While some visual effects land with a deliberate, almost nostalgic campiness, they contribute to the film’s overall tone—a blend of genuine chills and playful, macabre fun.
Ultimately, this is a stylish occult romp that delivers its share of atmospheric scares. It succeeds most when embracing its own darkly glamorous sensibility, led by a performance that promises a formidable new figure in the pantheon of screen villains. The film is available on digital platforms now.