‘Starve Acre’ Set to Terrify UK and Irish Cinemas This September

It feels like we’re certainly going through some kind of ‘folk horror‘ revival, and that’s set to continue with the release of Starve Acre.

BFI Distribution have announced the UK and Irish theatrical release of this new horror film on September 6, 2024. Directed by BAFTA nominee Daniel Kokotajlo and featuring performances from acclaimed actors Matt Smith and Morfydd Clark, Starve Acre promises to deliver a deeply unsettling cinematic experience.

Set in the remote rural landscapes of 1970s Yorkshire, Starve Acre explores the harrowing tale of the Willoughby family, whose tranquility is shattered by a tragic event. The film delves into the deep, dark recesses of folklore and the supernatural, as the family’s patriarch, Richard Willoughby, becomes consumed by the legend of an ancient oak tree believed to possess extraordinary powers. This obsession not only strains his marriage to Juliette but also invites malevolent forces into their home, offering them a sinister form of solace.

Starve Acre is based on the 2019 award-winning novel by Andrew Michael Hurley and features an evocative original score by composer Matthew Herbert. The film had its world premiere at the BFI London Film Festival in 2023, where it captivated audiences with its atmospheric storytelling and stunning cinematography.

Critics have already begun to praise the film’s eerie allure, with Guy Lodge from Variety calling it “freaky and frightening,” and Anton Bitel from Sight and Sound noting its exploration of “something primeval and toxic.”

Alongside the film’s release, director Daniel Kokotajlo will curate a season of influential films and television programs titled “Roots, Rituals, and Phantasmagoria” at BFI Southbank and BFI Player, starting September 1. This series promises to give audiences a deeper understanding of the inspirations behind Starve Acre.

Kokotajlo shared his vision for the film, stating, “Starve Acre taps into a timeless fear that feels more relevant than ever: the idea that returning home, to nature, and regressing into childhood, is a big mistake.” He aims to evoke a range of emotions from the audience, from nervous laughter to screams, making Starve Acre a truly cathartic experience.

The film is a production of Access Entertainment, BBC Film, and BFI, funded by Access Entertainment, BBC Film, and the BFI with National Lottery funding. Cornerstone is handling worldwide sales, ensuring that the terror of Starve Acre will reach an international audience.

Prepare to be terrified as Starve Acre brings its dark folklore to the big screen this autumn.