Damian McCarthy’s latest film continues his theme of eerie objects and isolation in the Irish countryside. Hogging the spotlight is his recent release, “Hokum,” a movie that’s surpassed box office expectations. For those who discovered McCarthy through this Kubrick homage featuring Adam Scott, dive into his previous project, “Oddity.”
Prefer a surprise? “Oddity” streams on Hoopla, Kanopy, Hulu, and Shudder. Yet, be warned of spoilers ahead. Much like “Hokum,” “Oddity” dwells in vast Irish landscapes, teeming with cursed items, the supernatural, and sinister societal outcasts. Both films feature sinister respectable figures targeting women.
Despite their modest budgets—”Hokum” at $5 million and “Oddity” reportedly at $750,000—they deliver intense, dark narratives. The centerpiece is a wooden golem, an unnerving element that retains its menace throughout the film’s 98 minutes.
McCarthy excels at building tension and atmosphere without resorting to cheap jump scares. “Oddity” masterfully plays on suspense, catching viewers off guard even on rewatches. The story is a twisted revenge tale, following Darcy Odello, a blind psychic, avenging her twin sister’s murder.
The golem wasn’t the sole fright; Darcy summons Dani’s restless spirit, a cannibal lurks, and cell service is nonexistent. It’s an efficient thriller that keeps you on edge.