the witch in the backyard movie

Witch in the Backyard: Movie Review & Spoilers

By Robert SmithDecember 1, 2025

The Witch in the Backyard, a chilling horror film directed by Andrew van den Houten, has been making waves in the indie film scene, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats. This atmospheric thriller, released in 2021, is a must-watch for fans of slow-burn horror and folk horror subgenres. But what makes this film stand out, and why is it worth your time? Let's delve into the eerie world of The Witch in the Backyard.

Set in the quiet, rural town of Hemlock Grove, Pennsylvania, the film follows a group of friends who, while investigating a local urban legend, stumble upon something far more sinister than they bargained for. The story is a masterclass in tension-building, with van den Houten expertly using the isolated, woodsy setting to create an oppressive and unsettling atmosphere.

The Folklore Behind the Film

The Witch in the Backyard draws heavily from Pennsylvania Dutch folklore, particularly the legend of the 'Hexen' or 'Hex' witch. This folklore adds a layer of authenticity and richness to the film, grounding it in a specific cultural tradition while also making it relatable to a wider audience.

three people standing around a campfire in the woods at night with one person jumping up into the air

The film's use of folklore is not just skin-deep; it's integral to the plot and themes. The Hexen legend serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the consequences of meddling with forces beyond our understanding. This makes The Witch in the Backyard more than just a horror film; it's a morality tale wrapped in a chilling narrative.

The Legend of the Hexen

The Hexen are said to be witches who made a pact with the devil in exchange for power and wealth. They are believed to cast spells and curses on those who wrong them, often causing misfortune and bad luck. The legend is a staple of Pennsylvania Dutch folklore, passed down through generations, and has inspired numerous stories and tales.

In The Witch in the Backyard, the Hexen legend is used to great effect, with the film's antagonist drawing power from the very folklore that seeks to contain her. This twist on the traditional tale adds a fresh perspective to the legend and makes the film a compelling watch for both horror fans and folklore enthusiasts.

The Role of Folklore in Horror

Folklore has always played a significant role in horror, providing a rich tapestry of myths, legends, and superstitions that filmmakers can draw upon. From the werewolves of Universal's classic monster movies to the vengeful spirits of Japanese ghost stories, folklore offers a wealth of material for creators to explore.

The Witch in the Backyard is a prime example of how folklore can be used to enhance a horror film's themes and atmosphere. By grounding the story in the specific folklore of the Pennsylvania Dutch, van den Houten creates a film that feels both fresh and familiar, tapping into universal fears while also celebrating a unique cultural tradition.

a woman laying in the grass next to a black cat with an interesting look on her face

there is a snowboarder that is standing in the woods at night with his board

the poster for witches in the woods shows two people on a log with a crow

two people sitting around a campfire in the woods at night time with bright lights

a woman holding her hands in front of the branches of a tree with no leaves

The Craft of Horror: Directing and Cinematography

While the film's folklore is a significant draw, it's the craft of The Witch in the Backyard that truly sets it apart. Director Andrew van den Houten and cinematographer Jayson Crothers have created a visual masterclass in slow-burn horror, using the film's setting and cinematography to build tension and unease.

The film's use of natural light and practical effects is particularly noteworthy. The woods surrounding Hemlock Grove are brought to life with a rich, earthy palette, while the interiors of the characters' homes are bathed in a warm, inviting glow. This contrast between the safety of home and the danger lurking in the woods is a powerful visual motif that adds depth to the film's themes.

The Power of Subtlety

In The Witch in the Backyard, less is often more. Van den Houten and Crothers use subtle visual cues and atmospheric tension to build suspense, rather than relying on jump scares or over-the-top gore. This approach makes the film's scares all the more effective when they do come, as they feel earned and organic to the story.

a woman wearing a witches hat and holding an umbrella in front of a blue sky

several different pictures of people in the woods

a group of people standing around each other in the grass near a tent at night

a woman standing next to a white horse in front of a man and another person

a woman with long black hair and blue eyes wearing a red dress is looking at the camera

two people standing in front of a scarecrow

a woman in a blue dress walking through the woods

two different pictures with one woman holding a cat and the other is wearing a witches hat

a woman sitting on the floor looking at her cell phone in front of a bookshelf

the witch movie poster with many different scenes

One standout example of this subtlety is the film's use of sound design. The creaking of floorboards, the rustling of leaves, and the distant hoot of an owl all contribute to the film's eerie atmosphere. These sounds are used sparingly but effectively, adding to the sense of unease and tension that permeates the film.

The Role of the Camera

The cinematography in The Witch in the Backyard is another standout aspect of the film. Crothers' use of the camera is masterful, with long, steady takes and careful framing creating a sense of unease and disorientation. The camera often lingers on the characters' faces, capturing their fear and uncertainty, and drawing the audience in.

Crothers also makes effective use of the film's setting, using the woods and the characters' homes to create a sense of claustrophobia and entrapment. This is particularly evident in the film's final act, as the characters become increasingly isolated and desperate.

Themes of Greed and Consequence

At its heart, The Witch in the Backyard is a morality tale about the dangers of greed and the consequences of meddling with forces beyond our understanding. This theme is woven throughout the film, from the characters' initial decision to investigate the urban legend to their desperate attempts to escape the Hexen's curse.

The film's exploration of greed is particularly timely, given the current cultural climate. In an era of rampant consumerism and inequality, The Witch in the Backyard serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of putting material wealth above all else.

The Corruption of Greed

In the film, the Hexen's power is drawn from the greed of those who seek to exploit them. The more the characters desire wealth and status, the more they become ensnared in the Hexen's web. This is a powerful exploration of the corrupting influence of greed, showing how it can twist and warp even the most well-meaning individuals.

This theme is particularly evident in the character of Tom, a charismatic and ambitious young man who becomes increasingly obsessed with the Hexen's power. As his greed grows, so too does his willingness to sacrifice anything - and anyone - to achieve his goals.

The Consequences of Meddling

Another key theme in The Witch in the Backyard is the consequences of meddling with forces beyond our understanding. The film's characters initially approach the Hexen legend as a fun challenge, a chance to prove their bravery and toughness. However, as they delve deeper into the folklore, they begin to realize the true power and danger of the forces they're dealing with.

This theme is a common one in horror, but The Witch in the Backyard explores it with a fresh and nuanced perspective. Rather than simply punishing the characters for their curiosity, the film shows how their actions have real-world consequences, affecting not just themselves but also the people they care about.

Ultimately, The Witch in the Backyard is a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of folklore, greed, and consequence. Its use of Pennsylvania Dutch folklore, masterful direction and cinematography, and timely themes make it a standout film in the horror genre. So, if you're looking for a slow-burn horror that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you thinking long after the credits roll, look no further than The Witch in the Backyard.