Adam Scott’s chilling Irish getaway is now available to stream on Hulu.
It’s been a standout year for horror films, and even a solid entry like this one can sometimes get overlooked. This summer, we were buzzing about titles like Obsession, The Backrooms, Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil, and The End of Oak Street, all of which raked in impressive box office numbers. Earlier in the year, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple garnered critical acclaim, if not a massive commercial success. Typically, horror enthusiasts sift through indie films for their thrills, but this year has been a veritable buffet of options.
What’s fascinating about the horror landscape in 2026 is the diversity of styles on offer. Only a few films fit the “elevated horror” label (you know, the kind where the real monster is trauma), while the majority deliver classic gore and scares.
One notable 2026 film that leans towards the elevated side is the Irish ghost story Hokum, which premiered in May to enthusiastic reviews and decent box office returns. It turned a profit but didn’t break any records.
In the context of this year’s horror offerings, Hokum managed to find a sweet spot; it released just two weeks before Obsession and The Backrooms went head-to-head, allowing it to make its mark before the heavy hitters arrived. If you missed Hokum amid all the buzz, it’s now streaming on Hulu and definitely deserves a spot on your watchlist as Halloween approaches.
Hokum has such a vibe that feels reminiscent of Stephen King’s work, it’s surprising to learn he wasn’t involved. Instead, the film comes from the mind of Damian McCarthy, known for 2024’s Oddity and 2020’s Caveat.
The story follows Ohm Bauman (played by Adam Scott), an American novelist grappling with the conclusion of his popular trilogy. In search of inspiration, he visits a rural Irish hotel where his parents honeymooned. Initially, Ohm’s plan is simply to scatter his parents’ ashes in the nearby woods, but he soon finds himself entangled in what could be a murder mystery, a ghostly encounter, or perhaps a vivid hallucination.
Hokum can be described as a backwoods Irish Gothic tale, swapping castles for an old hotel steeped in a dark past. It’s a meticulously crafted film that thrives on eerie silences and moments of stillness. While some critics label it a haunted house movie, that doesn’t quite capture its essence. There’s definitely something haunted, but the specifics of what, who, and why are open to interpretation.
Before diving in, be prepared for Hokum’s slow build-up, focusing on Scott as one of cinema’s most unpleasant tourists. The film takes its time, especially in the first half-hour, which might feel like a promotional tour for the scenic Irish countryside—where you might just encounter hotel ghosts.
Once Hokum shifts into gear, it transforms into a gripping thriller, with much of the weight resting on Scott’s shoulders. He spends a significant portion of the film alone and silent, conveying the story through body language, camera angles, and perspective shots. The film trusts its audience in a way that’s refreshing, but it all hinges on Scott’s ability to deliver.
While there may not be a plethora of reviews highlighting Scott’s performance, Hokum stands out as one of those horror films that would falter without a strong lead (think of how Happy Death Day relied on Jessica Rothe). Scott nails it, and it’s easy to forget he’s known for his role in Parks and Recreation; between Hokum and Severance, he’s been delivering some truly defining performances lately.
In a less competitive year, Hokum would likely be a frontrunner for one of 2026’s best horror films. Regardless, it comfortably secures a spot in the top 10. Now that it’s available on demand, it’s definitely worth adding to your Halloween watchlist.
Hokum is now streaming on Hulu.
