Hokum is a 2026 Irish supernatural horror film that blends psychological terror with folklore-inspired scares. The movie is written and directed by filmmaker Damian McCarthy, known for his atmospheric horror projects. The cast includes Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, Florence Ordesh, Will O’Connell, Michael Patric, Brendan Conroy, and Austin Amelio.
The story follows Ohm Bauman, a troubled novelist who travels to a remote hotel in Ireland to scatter his parents’ ashes beneath a tree they once loved. What begins as a quiet retreat soon turns terrifying when he learns that a condemned honeymoon suite is rumored to be haunted by an ancient witch. As disturbing visions and a mysterious disappearance unfold, Ohm must face painful memories and dark secrets from his past.
The film premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival on March 14, 2026. It is scheduled for a U.S. theatrical release on May 1, 2026, distributed by Neon.
Hokum Age Rating
Hokum is officially Rated R by the MPA for some violent/disturbing content and language. The rating reflects the film’s intense supernatural horror elements, frightening imagery, and strong language. The story also deals with heavy emotional trauma, including grief, alcoholism, and abusive family history. While the violence may not always be graphic, the psychological tension and disturbing scenes may be unsettling for younger viewers.
Violence & Peril
The film contains moderate to strong horror violence and disturbing supernatural imagery. Much of the tension comes from eerie visions, sudden jump scares, and encounters connected to an ancient witch haunting the hotel. Some scenes may include frightening apparitions, psychological torment, and brief violent moments tied to hallucinations or folklore. The overall atmosphere is dark and unsettling, with a slow-building dread typical of psychological horror.
Language
Strong profanity is present throughout the film. Characters use frequent harsh language, including common R-rated words and insults. The protagonist is portrayed as a cynical and emotionally unstable character, which leads to several tense conversations filled with sharp and aggressive dialogue.
Mature Themes
The story deals with heavy emotional themes including grief, guilt, family trauma, and childhood abuse. The main character struggles with alcoholism and is often shown drinking whiskey as a coping mechanism. References to death, abusive parenting, and psychological distress appear throughout the narrative. These topics add emotional weight that may be difficult for younger viewers.
Is Hokum Suitable for Teens?
Ages 13–15: No. The film’s frightening supernatural elements, disturbing imagery, and mature themes make it unsuitable for younger teens. The emotional intensity and R-rated language may also be overwhelming.
Ages 16–17: With Guidance. Older teens who enjoy horror may handle the film’s scares and themes, but parents should be aware of the heavy subject matter and strong language.
Adults: Yes. The film is designed for adult horror fans who appreciate atmospheric and psychological storytelling.
Overall recommendation: Hokum is best suited for ages 16+ with parental guidance, though the official R rating restricts unaccompanied viewers under 17.
What Parents Can Do
Discuss horror sensitivity beforehand. Let teens know the film focuses on psychological scares and disturbing visions rather than simple jump scares.
Talk about themes of grief and trauma. The story explores loss and family abuse, which may prompt meaningful conversations.
Watch together if your teen is interested. Being present can help reassure younger viewers during intense moments.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Hokum (2026)?
A: Hokum is rated R by the MPA for violent/disturbing content and language.
Q: Is Hokum appropriate for kids?
A: No. The film contains intense horror imagery, mature themes, and strong language that make it unsuitable for children.
Q: Is Hokum okay for teens?
A: Older teens around 16–17 may watch with parental guidance, but younger teens may find the film too frightening.
Q: Does Hokum contain scary scenes?
A: Yes. The movie features supernatural visions, a haunted hotel setting, and disturbing psychological horror moments.
Q: Does the film include strong language?
A: Yes. Several scenes contain strong profanity consistent with its R rating.
Q: Where can you watch Hokum?
A: The film is scheduled for a theatrical release in the United States on May 1, 2026, distributed by Neon.