Quartile rating: 7/10 · 1 rating
Cristina, a journalist of Mexican origin, travels to her ancestral home in Veracruz to investigate a story of sorcery and healing. There, she is kidnapped by a group of locals who claim she's the devil incarnated.
The Old Ways earns strong marks for Novelty by grounding its horror firmly in Mexican/Mesoamerican folklore and shamanic tradition — a genuinely rare and distinct cultural lens for the possession subgenre. The cinematography is competent and atmospheric but not exceptional. Acting is solid, particularly Brigitte Kali Canales in the lead, though the supporting cast is uneven. The plot builds intriguing tension in its first two acts but struggles with pacing and internal logic. The ending feels rushed and somewhat unsatisfying, undercutting the atmospheric dread built throughout.