The Reckoning (2021)

Review Team

3.5/5

The Reckoning, directed by Neil Marshall, unfolds in a post-plague England rife with superstition and fear. The narrative follows Grace, a widow grappling with the loss of her husband, who finds herself ensnared in a web of false accusations and witch hunts. Marshall's direction is commendable, capt ... Show more >> The Reckoning, directed by Neil Marshall, unfolds in a post-plague England rife with superstition and fear. The narrative follows Grace, a widow grappling with the loss of her husband, who finds herself ensnared in a web of false accusations and witch hunts. Marshall's direction is commendable, capturing the bleakness of the era while effectively utilising horror elements to enhance the emotional weight of the story. The performances, particularly from the lead actress, are compelling, conveying both strength and vulnerability. However, while the film delivers a poignant commentary on misogyny and persecution, it occasionally falters in pacing, leading to moments where the tension dissipates. Overall, The Reckoning is a thought-provoking piece that offers a chilling glimpse into a dark chapter of history, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. Show less

Editor Team

2.5/5

The Reckoning attempts to blend historical drama with horror, but it often feels like it gets lost in its own ambition. While the premise is intriguing—a widow facing persecution during the Great Plague—the execution leaves much to be desired. The lead performance is strong, yet the film's pacing is ... Show more >> The Reckoning attempts to blend historical drama with horror, but it often feels like it gets lost in its own ambition. While the premise is intriguing—a widow facing persecution during the Great Plague—the execution leaves much to be desired. The lead performance is strong, yet the film's pacing is uneven, dragging in parts and rushing through crucial emotional beats. There are moments of genuine suspense, but they are overshadowed by a predictable plot and a lack of character development. The film's dark aesthetic is visually striking, but it doesn't compensate for the narrative shortcomings. In summary, The Reckoning has potential but ultimately fails to deliver a fully engaging experience. It may appeal to genre enthusiasts, but others might find it lacking. Show less