Gothic Harvest

Gothic Harvest, directed by Ashley Hamilton, is a horror-thriller movie released in 2019. The film tells the story of a family of witches in New Orleans, who have been cursed to never leave their property for centuries. The movie features an impressive cast including renowned horror film actors Bill Moseley as Maury LaVallee, and Lin Shaye as the family matriarch, Evangeline. Sofia Mattsson also stars as Maeve, one of the family's newest members.

The movie begins with a group of tourists who visit a haunted house attraction. One of the tourists, Aria (Abby Brammell), accidentally stumbles upon the property of the LaVallee family. She is quickly discovered by Maeve, who decides to sneak her into the family's Mardi Gras party. However, Aria's presence on the property ignites a deadly curse that has been placed on the LaVallees, and the family soon finds themselves fighting for their lives against the evil spirits that surround them.

As the night progresses, the film gives us a glimpse into the dark history of the family, revealing the terrifying secrets that have kept them bound to their property for centuries. We learn that the LaVallee family has a deep connection to Voodoo and magic. Their ancestor, Marie Laveau, was a famous Voodoo priestess who has placed a curse on them for their sins. The family must perform a ritual every year to keep the curse at bay, but this time, something goes wrong.

Gothic Harvest explores themes of family, loyalty, and survival against the backdrop of the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans. The movie boasts stunning cinematography, highlighting the eerie beauty of the city at night. Additionally, the film's use of visual effects is impressive, creating a sense of dread and unease that permeates the entire movie.

One of the standout aspects of the film is the performance of Lin Shaye as Evangeline. She presents a nuanced and complex characterization of the family's matriarch, who struggles with her own moral compass as she tries to keep her family safe. Bill Moseley also delivers a strong performance as Maury, the family's enforcer, who is willing to do whatever it takes to protect those he loves.

Sofia Mattsson's portrayal of Maeve is also impressive, as she brings a sense of vulnerability and innocence to her character. As the newest member of the family, Maeve serves as a bridge between the supernatural world of the LaVallees and the outside world, providing an entry point for the audience to experience the family's secrets and history.

While the movie does feature some horror elements, it is not a traditional horror movie. Rather, Gothic Harvest is a character-driven thriller that relies on atmosphere and tension to deliver its scares. The film's pacing is deliberate, building suspense gradually as it draws the viewer deeper into the world of the LaVallee family.

Overall, Gothic Harvest is a well-crafted thriller that is anchored by strong performances and stunning visuals. It presents a unique take on the horror genre by exploring the darker corners of Voodoo and magic in a modern setting. Fans of horror and thriller movies will undoubtedly appreciate the film's tension and atmosphere.