The Reckoning

The Reckoning is an enthralling horror-drama movie release from 2020, marking another exquisite creation from the veteran horror maestro, Neil Marshall. Marshall is known for his previous works such as “The Descent” and “Dog Soldiers,” to name a few. This movie strikingly addresses the elements of horror and suspense and introduces different themes, encapsulating fear, suffering, survival, and revenge.

Set against the grim backdrop of England in 1665 amidst the Great Plague, The Reckoning opens a narrative of suffering, barbarity, and survival. The audience is invited into the life of the film’s assertive heroine, Grace Haverstock, immaculately portrayed by Charlotte Kirk, who co-wrote the screenplay in collaboration with Neil Marshall and Edward Evers-Swindell.

Grace, a young widow, is pushed into an abyss of horror after the tragic death of her husband, Joseph, from the deadly plague. The intensity of the torment is compounded by the social pressure of losing so many loved ones to the plague, creating a palpable sense of frayed communal sanity. Balanced on this knife’s edge of bleak reality, Grace emerges with remarkable mental strength, fighting adversaries, and enduring immense physical and emotional torment.

As the plot of The Reckoning unfolds, Grace scans her environment, where everyone is haunted by the fear of the plague. Around her, people fearfully gather their families, keep their distance, and do everything in their power to survive. Viewers are provided a vivid understanding of the harsh realities of the time and the bleak future perceived by the residents.

While Grace battles her life's predicaments, she encounters nemesis in the form of the landlord, Squire Pendleton, masterfully played by Steven Waddington. Squire Pendleton, unsympathetic to Grace's sorrow, sets his greedy sights on acquiring Grace's farm. When Grace courageously stands in his way, refusing to succumb to the exorbitant rent increases, Pendleton accuses her of witchcraft, a common accusation used brutally in those times to foster fear and gain power over the innocent and vulnerable.

As the film progresses, Grace is thrown into the custody of the Witchfinder General, Judge Moorcroft, brilliantly portrayed by Sean Pertwee. Moorcroft, known for his relentless brutality, subjecting accused witches to harrowing inquisitions and macabre torture, commences onto a path of unyielding torment for Grace. Throughout this ordeal, the narrative weaves real-life historical atrocities with elements of supernatural horror, giving the movie a unique blend of genres.

The Reckoning is indeed a horror film, but it steps beyond the boundaries of its genre. It situates itself within a broader context of historical and cultural discourse, shedding light on aspects of misogyny and social oppression. It raises important questions regarding gender, power, and autonomy, grappling with the idea of how fear was weaponized against women in the 17th century.

Filmed in Budapest, the movie does not fail to astound with its breathtaking visual composition. The cinematography successfully captures the period setting's gloom and confinement, creating a perseverance-invoking atmosphere for viewers, who can practically taste Grace's fear and determination. Likewise, the costume and makeup design are praisely executed, reflecting the movie’s meticulous attention to detail and authenticity.

Charlotte Kirk shines brightly in her role, putting on an exceptional performance, encapsulating Grace's struggle and resilience. Her journey from vulnerability to defiance, while maintaining her humanity, is truly inspiring. Kirk's portrayal compellingly anchors the audience to her character and emotionally invests them in her fate.

Steven Waddington and Sean Pertwee also deliver powerfully convincing performances. Waddington embodies uncurbed greed and lust, whilst Pertwee creates tension and torment as akin to the sadistic inquisitor.

The film's musical score, composed by Christopher Drake, wonderfully accentuates the mounting tension and horror throughout the film. At every turn, the music enhances the story’s darkest moments, heightening suspense and deepening Grace’s despair.

In summary, The Reckoning is an impressive blend of historical drama and supernatural horror. Neil Marshall masterfully guides the audience through a bleak period in history, peppered with the terrors of witch trials – a time of irrational fear and immense human suffering. He builds on this backdrop to create a stirring tale about a woman's strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The performances, cinematography, music, and authenticity of the period make The Reckoning an interesting watch, portraying the grotesque nature of humanity's past. But beneath the horrific sequences, it also offers a tale of strength and survival, making it for those who appreciate an intense, immersive narrative laced with terror and historical relevance.