I like to look out for quirky, strange, or cult films, as I find that there are often many fascinating ideas or unique themes that many mainstream films do not typically address or explore in depth; these unconventional movies can lead to intriguing conversations and allow for a deeper understanding of different perspectives within the realm of cinema. And so it was whilst looking through folk horror film lists that I first heard of the 1967 film Viy- a landmark of Soviet cinema apparently. With that kind of provenance it'd be rude not to watch it, so with the wood stove crackling away on a dark, cold and windy winter's night, I partook in this film.
Konstantin Yershov and Georgi Kropachyov created this chilling adaptation of Nikolai Gogol's short story, transporting viewers to 17th-century Kiev, Ukraine. The film follows Khoma Brut, a young seminary student (someone who studies scripture, theology and philosophy) who is more interested in revelry than piety, as he is tasked with performing a three-night vigil over the corpse of a suspected witch. This seemingly simple duty soon unravels into a terrifying ordeal that tests the boundaries between the living and the supernatural as he prays over the corpse of a woman who tried to seduce him in her crone form on one of his debauched nights. Over the course of the three nights, the test becomes sterner and the danger greater but will Khoma make it?
This visually arresting film, directed by Alexander Ptushko, delves into profound themes of temptation, sin, and the power of the supernatural and serves as a cautionary tale, reminding viewers of the dangers of straying from their faith and the importance of resisting worldly temptations.
Looking at the film now, with no nostalgia for it at all, I can say that I thought the story reminded me of Jim Henson’s The Storyteller series which also presented many European tales with a dark edge to them. Also, the section where the young men, freed from the seminary, go forth but get lost in the woods reminds me of Rudyard Kipling's The Way Through the Woods- another deceptively simple but incredibly creepy premise.
The film sets themselves are beautiful with vibrant colours and costumes that are lush and detailed. It looks like an expensive production and this lavishness extends to the special effects, which may look laughable now but at the time, and with I’d imagine a tight budget, were impressive. The film has little dialogue so the Russian vocal track shouldn’t detract non-Russian speakers as the visuals and simple story can be enjoyed by all. The actors, Khoma (wonderfully played with drunken indifference by Leonid Kuravlev) and young Pannochka (played by the beautifully feral Natalya Varley) are excellent in their role and are earnest in their portrayal of the respective characters. The soundtrack, by Karen Khachaturian, is wonderfully eerie in places and cheerful with the daytime countryside scenes or the rare moments of levity.
After nearly 60 years, I can see why Viy continues to captivate audiences with its chilling atmosphere and unforgettable imagery. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of classic horror.
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