Adam Scott is set to take audiences on a spine-tingling journey with his latest role in the horror film Hokum, which unfolds against the atmospheric backdrop of Ireland. This new project marks a significant milestone for writer-director Damian McCarthy, who has previously gained recognition for his work on Caveat (2020) and Oddity (2024). Known for his distinctive style, McCarthy not only penned the scripts for those films but also took on editing duties for Caveat. With Hokum, he is elevating his craft, delivering what many are calling his most ambitious and intense film to date.
The film’s distribution has been secured by Neon, a company renowned for championing bold and innovative horror titles. Neon’s involvement signals high expectations for Hokum, promising a fresh and unsettling cinematic experience. Recently, the first full trailer was unveiled, offering viewers a tantalizing glimpse into the eerie narrative. The story centers on Adam Scott’s character, Ohm Bauman, an author who embarks on a deeply personal trip to Ireland to scatter his parents’ ashes. His journey takes a dark turn when he revisits the hotel where his parents spent their honeymoon, only to uncover disturbing and malevolent secrets lurking within its walls.
The trailer expertly builds suspense, revealing just enough to hint that this hotel is far from an ordinary lodging. Strange occurrences and unsettling imagery flash across the screen, suggesting that Ohm’s connection to the place is more complicated and sinister than it initially appears. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Ohm is drawn into a nightmare that challenges his understanding of reality, setting the stage for a gripping descent into horror.
Alongside Adam Scott, the cast features notable actors such as Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, and Austin Amelio, each contributing to the film’s layered and chilling atmosphere. Their performances are expected to enhance McCarthy’s vision, adding depth and complexity to the unsettling world of Hokum. The ensemble’s dynamic promises to keep audiences engaged as the story unravels its dark mysteries.
Hokum is scheduled to have its world premiere at the prestigious SXSW Film Festival on March 14, 2026, a platform known for showcasing innovative and genre-defying films. Following its debut, the movie will be released widely on May 1, giving horror enthusiasts ample opportunity to experience this haunting tale. For Adam Scott, this film represents a departure from his usual roles, plunging him into a narrative that is as emotionally charged as it is terrifying.
What begins as a heartfelt journey to honor his parents’ memory quickly spirals into a chilling ordeal, making Hokum a standout addition to Neon’s growing catalogue of provocative horror films. With its blend of personal drama and supernatural dread, the film is poised to captivate viewers and leave a lasting impression. As anticipation builds, fans and critics alike are eager to see how McCarthy’s vision and Scott’s performance will redefine the horror genre in this evocative Irish setting.
