Osgood Perkins’ ‘Gretel & Hansel’: A Horror Spin on a Classic Fairy Tale

Osgood Perkins’ horror films, like ‘Longlegs,’ are known for their eerie, stylized, and peculiar nature. ‘Longlegs’ appears to be an occult take on serial killer movies, but a haunting bedtime story within the film shifts its context to a bizarre fairy tale about evil. Perkins’ previous work, ‘Gretel & Hansel,’ a 2020 remake of the Brothers Grimm classic, reflects his unique style. 

This film reimagines the tale of siblings abandoned in the woods who find shelter with a cannibal witch, intensifying the gore and occult elements. Despite not writing the script, Perkins’ atmospheric style permeates the film, creating an unsettling world.

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In ‘Gretel & Hansel’ Gretel (Sophia Lillis) and Hansel (Sam Leakey) are expelled from their home and find refuge with the witch Holda (Alice Krige). Gretel’s budding witch powers lead to a dangerous bond with Holda, endangering Hansel. This version, focusing on Gretel as the protagonist, explores her struggle in a repressive environment, facing both human and supernatural threats. The film presents witchcraft as a source of female empowerment in a male-dominated world.

Perkins builds a menacing world where the witch isn’t the only danger. Before encountering Holda, Gretel faces demeaning and oppressive challenges, highlighting the limited choices for women. 

The film portrays witchcraft as a means for Gretel to gain power but at a sinister cost. The score by ROB adds to the occult ambience, enhancing the dark tone of the medieval setting. ‘Gretel & Hansel’ reinvents the fairy tale with a grim, dark fantasy that aligns with Perkins’ signature style. 

–Farheen Ali