Communication with the deceased is an age-old fascination, tracing back to the early 1600s, and has been woven into the tapestry of many cultures, religions, and regions worldwide. Many hair-raising tales and spine-chilling movies have been spun from this concept. Taking a fresh spin on this age-old topic is Alberto Corredor, the visionary behind the 2017 short film “Baghead”. Now, he’s back in the director’s chair for the feature-length rendition, drawing inspiration from the legendary Guillermo Del Toro.
Bryce McGuire and Christina Pamies, the brilliant minds behind “Baghead”, toy with the tantalizing question of “what comes after”. The intrigue and dread surrounding conversations with the departed provide ample fuel for horror enthusiasts. So, before you settle down to watch “Baghead”, perhaps you might want to purify your living space a little.
Release Date for “Baghead”
Currently under post-production, “Baghead” has evaded the hurdles posed by the recent WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes. There’s chatter about a February 8 release in Mexico, but it remains uncertain whether US viewers can stream it on the same day. A wide US theatrical release seems improbable, but streaming platforms will probably host the movie in February.
Sneak Peek into “Baghead”
Hoping for a trailer? Regrettably, no full-length trailers are available yet. But, a teaser of the original short film from the Pendance Film Festival might quench your thirst for a sneak peek.
The Tale Behind “Baghead”
“Baghead” delves into a haunting premise: if you could potentially communicate with a deceased loved one, knowing things could go horribly wrong, would you take the plunge? The narrative trails Kevin, a distraught young man grappling with unresolved emotions after a sudden loss. In a bid to find closure, he consults a peculiar shape-shifting witch, Baghead. Her eerie lair, a dimly lit room at the back of a pub, belies her extraordinary capability to channel the spirits. However, as Kevin soon finds out, some doors, once opened, refuse to shut.
Meet the “Baghead” Cast
Jeremy Irvine, known for roles in “Treadstone”, “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again”, and the acclaimed “War Horse”, is anticipated to portray Kevin. Speculations are rife about the identity of Kevin’s deceased acquaintance. Among the talented cast, Freya Allan of “The Witcher” fame might be stepping into the enigmatic shoes of Baghead. The roster also boasts talents like Julika Jenkins (“Dark”), Saffron Burrows (“You”), Svenja Young (“The Empress”), and Ruby Barker (“Bridgerton”).
Ned Dennehy, familiar to many as The Harbinger from “Cabin in the Woods”, might fill in the shoes of the Gatekeeper from the 2017 film, the crucial character who forewarns the protagonist. Complementing him is Peter Mullan, known for roles in “War Horse”, “Westworld”, and “Liason”.
Horror Buff? Here’s Your Watchlist
Eagerly awaiting “Baghead”? Satiate your horror cravings with films that delve into the eerie world of communicating with the beyond. “The Other Side of the Door” (2016) portrays Maria Harwood’s heart-wrenching journey, her desperate attempt to converse with her deceased son, and the unforeseen horrors she unleashes. “White Noise” (2005) presents Jonathan Rivers’ spine-chilling experience with electronic voice phenomena post his wife’s mysterious disappearance. Tread with caution; the voices might not all be benign.
Conclusion
As “Baghead” prepares to terrify audiences worldwide, the fascination with the dead remains undying. The film promises a gripping storyline, a stellar cast, and an exploration of the lengths one might go to for closure. While we wait with bated breath, perhaps it’s time to dim the lights and delve into the myriad mysteries of the world beyond.