The Droving has already been compared to The Wicker Man, Midsommer, even Kill List, plus several other "folk horror" films. And that's OK. But it's its own film, whichever category you want to place it in.
First, the setting - the English Lake District, which apart from being glorious, beautiful and haunting (watch it again to identify all your favourite spots) has its own folk legends and superstitions. Many of which are touched on here. It's a fabulous, atmospheric and immersive film in this respect alone.
Then, the imagery. Landscapes, set scenes, long static shots, all add to the scope and beauty of the film. Colours are often bright then subdued - I'd love to see this in the cinema.
The story - the word haunting comes up again, but also in turn horrific, tragic, and shocking. Perhaps a bit of a slow burner to begin, but things soon get moving. Not too shabby an ending either...
Finally, the score. It fits perfectly, whether its following the scenic shots or the more intense scenes, composer Matthew Laming has done it large and well.
If you're into folk horror, this is a 10/10. If you're into thrillers, it's still a 10/10. Give it a go, and if if ever appears in the cinema, I'll be first in the queue.
