Step back into a chilling abyss of frontier chills. Consider a world that shuns the modern comforts we so carelessly embrace. Imagine a realm where the eerie unknown prowls in every shadow. Here, the solitary glimmer in the suffocating darkness comes from remote, mocking stars.
This is the realm of antique horrors, a territory where dread is not merely a fleeting thought. Instead, it is an everlasting companion. Brace yourself as we unveil five horror films that masterfully encapsulate the sinister essence of their archaic settings.
Frontier Chills: Unforgettable Old-Timey Horror Films
Ravenous (Directed by Antonia Bird):
Topping our list is the unforgettable ‘Ravenous’. This film is a playful take on frontier cannibalism incidents. It delves into the concept of wendigo psychosis among soldiers stationed at a remote Gold Rush-era military fort in the high Sierra Nevada. Despite its gleeful disregard for historical accuracy and native lore, ‘Ravenous’ delivers a powerful commentary on America’s colonial project. It ties cannibalistic gore to the concept of manifest destiny.
Grim Prairie Tales (Directed by Wayne Coe):
This anthology film delivers a potent dose of frontier chills. Two strangers, played by the incredible duo of James Earl Jones and Brad Dourif, share a campfire in the wilderness. They swap spooky stories to pass the long desert night. From traditional Indian burial ground tales to body horror, ‘Grim Prairie Tales’ offers a diverse range of narratives. These narratives keep you on the edge of your seat.
Lemora: A Child’s Tale of the Supernatural (Directed by Richard Blackburn):
Set in the Prohibition-era south, this film follows Lila Lee, a virginal teen. She discovers a subtly lesbian vampire seductress, Lemora, holds her rum-runner father captive in the secluded town of Astaroth. The film critiques religious hypocrisy and weaves in queer undertones. These aspects add depth to the narrative.
The Burrowers (Directed by J.T. Petty):
Set in the American frontier of the 1870s, this film depicts nocturnal attacks on settlers. Locals initially attribute these attacks to Native Americans. However, the true culprits turn out to be monsters. These monsters prey on humans after their natural prey, the buffalo, has been decimated. ‘The Burrowers’ presents a unique perspective on the western legend. It emphasizes the ecological devastation, genocide, and slavery that founded the country.
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Eyes of Fire (Directed by Avery Crounse):
This low-budget film, set in 1750, depicts a charismatic preacher. He leads his flock to a new paradise in a secluded valley. The settlers are unaware of the valley’s curse. As the settlers’ situation spirals out of control, the film descends into psychedelic mayhem. It provides a distinctly American take on the folk horror sub-genre.
We’d like to extend our gratitude to Bitter for sharing this list with us! Bitter is the author of “The Ballad of Horse Girl” in SPLIT SCREAM Volume Five. Be sure to grab a copy!
Thank you for visiting with us. For more Reviews, visit our blog at The Ritual.
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