Rent The Vigil (2019)

Potential - The Vigil review by TH

This started as an interesting low budget horror film but sadly it never felt like it got going. Theres some odd moments that work but at times resorts to the usual jump scenes and the ending almost felt a bit of an anticlimax.

Its worth a watch due to its length but wont be an instant classic in the horror genre.

A Brilliant and Original Horror Film set in the US Jewish Community - The Vigil review by PV

I was on the edge of my seat watching this film. It is genuinely spooky with lots of shocks.

The main actor Davis is superb, as are others. A refreshing change after all those predictable haunted bouse movies.

Interesting to see a film partly in English and partly in Yiddish and featuring Hasidic Jews, a community the main character has left after a tragedy (no spoilers).

Reminds me bit of the Golam legend. No idea if this malevolent entity has its roots in real Jewish legend and myth, but all faiths have demons etc as does pagan faiths and folklore, especially in pre-industrial pre-Enlightenment societies.

The best horror film I have seen for quite some time. I'd have ideally liked a bit more backstory re WWII and clarity, but the fog of horror makes it more intense maybe (watch to the very end).

Cleverly horrific stuff.

4.5 stars rounded up.

Scary at times and well acted - The Vigil review by CD

This is my second viewing of this film, which has featured in at least one list of scariest movies in the past few years. It certainly has some spooky moments especially when modern technology gets some demonic interference. One feels very sorry for the main character who you feel has been set up specially for this vigil as part of a grudge against him for leaving his religious calling. There are some dull bits with an extended wavering candle scene, but it is harrowing when he tries to leave the house midway and the end is one of suspense.