Matt Smith stars in chilling folk horror set in rural Britain

Set in rural Yorkshire during the Seventies, 'Starve Acre' follows Richard, played by Matt Smith, who grapples with the haunting legacy of his family's home. His father had purchased the property to delve into its history, intrigued by tales of an ancient oak linked to pagan rituals and a wood sprite named 'Jack Grey.' The narrative takes a dark turn when Richard's son, Owen, exhibits violent behavior, claiming that 'Jack Grey' is influencing him. This unsettling development leads to chaos and paranoia within the family. As Richard and his partner Juliette confront the escalating turmoil, they seek solace in tradition and local folklore. Richard explores his father's research and listens to stories from their neighbor, while Juliette turns to a spiritualist for guidance. The film captures the couple's descent into despair, with Richard's character portrayed as increasingly fragile and introspective, while Juliette embodies a sense of detachment and delusion. The film's atmosphere is enhanced by a haunting score and striking visual effects, including a surreal scene of a decaying hare that appears to rot in reverse. The narrative critiques the notion of rural England as a land steeped in primitive magic, yet it does not fully explore the implications of these themes. Ultimately, 'Starve Acre' culminates in a disturbing and memorable conclusion, leaving audiences with a sense of unease. Directed by Daniel Kokotajlo, the film features a talented cast, including Morfydd Clark and Sean Gilder, and contributes to the ongoing resurgence of folk horror in British cinema, echoing the legacy of classics like 'The Wicker Man.'