Impetigore: The terrifying folk horror film that’s in the running for an Oscar nomination

It’s a must-watch for fans of scary films

Scary films are rarely represented at the Oscars, but there’s one horror film that could sneak its way into this year’s nominations.

With the 2021 ceremony delayed until April, it’s still all to play for in regards to who will receive recognition in specific categories.

The International Feature Film category is shaping up to be a particularly exciting race; this year’s longlist is filled with impressive films that’ll be hoping to secure a nomination, including The Sleepwalkers (Argentina), A Sun (Taiwain) and Quo Vadis, Aida? (Bosnia and Herzegovina).

One film on the longlist is an acclaimed folk horror film that’s currently available to stream on Shudder in the UK.

Titled Impetigore, it’s the film that Indonesia is pinning its chances on. 

Directed by Joko Anwar (Satan’s Slaves), Impetigore follows a young woman (Tara Basro) who returns home to her quiet village in the hope of unearthing a family mystery. 

It soon becomes apparent, though, that the locals are not planning on welcoming her with open arms, and that she’s in serious danger.

With 95 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes, Impetigore has proved a big hit with the critics, but could this acclaim translate into an Oscar nomination? It remains to be seen, but it would be a victory for the horror genre if that does happen.

It would also mark the first ever Oscar nomination for an Indonesian film.

Find a rundown of all the films, actors and directors in the running for nominations at this year’s ceremony, which will occur on 25 April, here.