Heresy

In the realm of contemporary folk horror, Heresy (Witte Wieven) stands out as a captivating tale that blends the oppressive weight of religious fanaticism with the enigmatic appeal of supernatural folklore. Directed by Didier Konings, this Dutch film plunges into the harrowing journey of Frieda, played with remarkable depth by Anneke Sluiters, as she navigates the treacherous waters of a patriarchal society within a medieval village.
Frieda's distress is immediately palpable; her inability to conceive subjects her to the scorn and suspicion of her fellow citizens, illustrating the period's tendency to vilify women for circumstances beyond their control. Her despair leads her to fervent prayers and rituals, seeking divine intervention to realize her maternal aspirations. 

However, the community's deep-seated misogyny becomes blatantly obvious when the local butcher, Gelo, attempts to exploit her vulnerability, an act that propels Frieda into the forbidden woods surrounding the village. This pivotal moment not only underscores the dangers facing the women, but also serves as a catalyst for the film's exploration of the supernatural.

Director Didier Konings uses the dense, ominous forest as a symbol of danger and liberation. The woods, shrouded in mist and mystery, introduce the legend of the Witte Wieven, ethereal, banshee-like beings of Dutch folklore. Frieda's encounters in this liminal space blur the boundaries between reality and the supernatural, challenging her hitherto unshakeable faith and the rigid doctrines imposed on her. The film's atmospheric cinematography, characterized by chiaroscuro lighting and meticulous framing, reinforces this sense of ambiguity, immersing the audience in Frieda's inner and outer torment.

The story's strength lies in its unvarnished depiction of the consequences of religious fanaticism. The speed with which the villagers brand Frieda a heretic on her return from the woods reflects a broader commentary on the dangers of dogmatic societies that suppress individual autonomy, particularly that of women. This thematic resonance is further amplified by the film's dialogue, spoken in an archaic Dutch dialect, which anchors the story 
in its historical context while underscoring the timeless nature of its critique.

Anneke Sluiters perfectly captures the many facets of Frieda's character, from her initial vulnerability and devotion to her gradual empowerment and defiance of the oppressive structures that seek to confine her. Her performance is complemented by strong supporting actors, notably Len Leo Vincent as Hikko, whose portrayal of patriarchal complicity adds layers to the film's social commentary.

Although Heresy (Witte Wieven) is inevitably compared to other folk horror films, such as Robert Eggers' The Witch, it stands out for its cultural specificity and incorporation of Dutch folklore, offering a fresh perspective in the genre. The film's concise running time (61 minutes) ensures a well-crafted narrative that maintains tension without superfluous subplots, a testament to Didier Konings' rigorous direction.

Heresy (Witte Wieven) is a poignant exploration of the intersection between faith, folklore and feminine power. Its evocative narrative, supported by convincing performances and atmospheric direction, makes it a significant contribution to contemporary folk horror cinema. The film not only entertains, it also provokes reflection on historical and current struggles against patriarchal oppression, making it a work that resonates with audiences today.

Heresy (Witte Wieven)
Directed by Didier Konings
Produced by Pita de Leeuw, Monique van Kessel
Written by Marc S. Nollkaemper
Starring Anneke Sluiters, Len Leo Vincent, Reinout Bussemaker, Nola Elvis Kemper, Marc Eikelenboom, Nina Fokker, Sam Post, Vincent van den Broek, Nikita van der Linden, Tilo van Driel, Léon van Waas, Joy Verberk, Easy May Walker
Music by Sebastien Romero
Cinematography : Luuk de Kok, Clifton Stommel
Edited by Kees Riphagen
Production companies : Make Way Film, Omroepvereniging VPRO
Distributed by
Release date : NC
Running time : 61 minutes

Seen December 8, 2024 at Max Linder Panorama

Mulder's Mark: