Ghoul is a Czech-made found-footage horror that blends historical intrigue with supernatural terror. The story follows a group of American documentary filmmakers who travel to Ukraine to investigate reported cases of cannibalism during the 1932–33 famine. What begins as a grim exploration of human history soon turns into a fight for survival, as the crew becomes trapped in a remote house and begins to encounter forces beyond explanation.
The film’s concept is intriguing: real-life horrors like famine and notorious serial killer Andrei Chikatilo provide a macabre backdrop that promises psychological depth. Early on, Ghoul establishes a bleak atmosphere effectively, using its rural setting and documentary style to create a sense of unease.
That said, the movie’s execution is uneven. The found-footage format results in a shaky camera and familiar genre tropes that many viewers will find derivative—evoking comparisons to The Blair Witch Project and other horror staples. Critics noted that the narrative struggles to balance its historical and supernatural elements, sometimes leaving the story feeling unfocused.
Acting and character development are mixed. The cast delivers serviceable performances, but most characters lack the depth needed to make audiences fully invest in their fates. Many scares rely on standard jump moments and sound cues rather than sustained tension, which may disappoint horror fans looking for something more innovative.
On the positive side, Ghoul shows ambition—especially for a film from a region not widely known for horror cinema. Its use of real historical references and bleak Eastern European landscapes gives it an unsettling mood that lingers longer than typical genre entries.
Overall, Ghoul is a respectable effort with a strong premise hampered by formulaic execution. Fans of found-footage horror might find enough to enjoy, but those seeking originality or deeper scares may walk away underwhelmed.
i love this horror