Adam Scott's 2026 Irish horror film "Hokum" is now available for streaming on Hulu. Directed by Damian McCarthy, the film debuted in May and received positive reviews but was overshadowed by larger horror releases later in the summer. "Hokum" now has a chance to find a wider audience as the Halloween season approaches.
A Rural Irish Gothic
The film centers on Ohm Bauman, an American novelist played by Scott, who travels to a hotel in rural Ireland. Initially intending to scatter his parents' ashes, Ohm becomes entangled in a potential murder mystery and a ghost story. McCarthy, known for his previous horror films "Oddity" and "Caveat," crafts a deliberate, atmospheric thriller that relies on suspense and visual storytelling.
![Adam Scott in "Hokum"]( "Adam Scott in "Hokum" (2026)")
"Hokum" has been described as a sort of backwoods Irish Gothic, eschewing traditional haunted castles for an old hotel with a dark history. The movie employs ominous silences and stillness to build tension, with multiple elements contributing to the unsettling atmosphere.
Scott Carries the Narrative
The film begins at a slow pace, focusing on Scott's character as he navigates the isolated Irish setting. The early portions of the movie emphasize establishing shots and the unsettling beauty of the landscape. However, as the narrative progresses, "Hokum" evolves into an evocative thriller, with much of its impact resting on Scott's performance.
Scott, who also starred in the Apple TV+ series "Severance," carries the weight of the story, often performing solo and conveying plot developments through body language and the film's point-of-view shots. Critics have noted that the film trusts its audience to interpret its unfolding mystery, a task made possible by Scott's capable performance.
In a year with numerous high-profile horror releases, "Hokum" has been noted as a standout that could easily rank among the year's best genre films. Its availability on Hulu makes it an accessible option for those seeking a suspenseful and atmospheric thriller for the Halloween season.