Netflix's horror catalog is known for chilling films, but Incantation has taken the scare factor to a whole new level. Since its 2022 release, the Taiwanese horror film has gained a reputation for being so frightening that many viewers have struggled to watch it all the way through. Inspired by a true story, Incantation follows Li Ronan, a woman who becomes cursed after breaking a religious taboo and must protect her daughter from the consequences of her actions, including the wrath of malevolent spirits.
The film draws its unsettling premise from a real-life incident in Taiwan in 2005, where a family of six claimed they were possessed by various Chinese folk deities. The situation turned violent as the family members accused each other of being possessed by demons, leading to tragic outcomes, including the death of the eldest daughter due to severe mistreatment. The disturbing nature of this event adds an extra layer of horror to the movie, making the supernatural elements feel grounded and intensely real.
Despite mixed reviews, with a 75% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 62% audience score, Incantation became the highest-grossing Taiwanese horror film ever. Fans have taken to social media, sharing their reactions, with some claiming they “actually screamed” during specific scenes, while others reported feeling so disturbed that they couldn't complete the movie.
This chilling narrative, coupled with the film's found-footage style and unsettling atmosphere, immerses viewers in a way that few horror films achieve. The combination of folklore, real-life horror, and psychological terror makes Incantation a must-watch for genre enthusiasts seeking a spine-tingling experience.
Incantation stands out as a horror film that goes beyond mere jump scares, delving into psychological and cultural terror. Its inspiration from a real-life incident amplifies the fear factor, making the supernatural events feel eerily plausible. The film's use of found-footage techniques and a non-linear storyline adds to the tension, creating an immersive viewing experience that grips the audience from start to finish. However, the disturbing nature of some scenes might not be suitable for all viewers, as the horror is both visual and psychological. The mixed reviews on Rotten Tomatoes may reflect its polarizing effect—some find it brilliantly scary, while others may struggle with its unsettling content. Overall, Incantation is a compelling watch for those who appreciate horror that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
“Do you think horror films based on real-life events are more terrifying than fictional stories? Why or why not?”
