**Hokum Review: Adam Scott Faces Fright in Irish Hotel Horror** The mystical landscapes of Ireland have long been a fertile ground for horror movies, but Damian McCarthy's 'Hokum' doesn't quite live up to the expectations set by the Emerald Isle's eerie woodlands. The film opens with an unusual desert scene, complete with a 16th-century conquistador, before shifting to its true setting in Ireland. This disjointed start is a reflection of the film's script, which attempts to pack in too many story points and symbols without providing a clear explanation of the underlying mystery. At the heart of the story is Adam Scott, who plays Ohm Bauman, a successful American novelist struggling to complete his series, 'The Conquistador Trilogy'. His trip to Ireland is meant to be a moment of reflection, as he scatters his parents' ashes at a quaint old hotel called Billberry Woods. However, Ohm's abrasive personality and American entitlement quickly alienate the hotel staff. The hotel itself seems to be the source of the horror, but the film fails to provide a satisfactory explanation for the strange occurrences that unfold. This lack of clarity makes it difficult for viewers to become fully invested in the story. Despite some minor rewards at the end, which provide a sense of redemption for the troubled Ohm, the film ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. 'Hokum' is a product of the SXSW Film Festival, and it's clear that the film's intentions are good, even if the execution falls short. With a talented cast, including Peter Coonan and David Wilmot, the film has the potential to be a compelling horror story, but it's held back by its diffuse script and lack of direction. If you're a fan of horror movies, you might find 'Hokum' to be an interesting watch, but it's not a must-see. The film releases on May 1, so you can catch it in theaters if you're curious. Just don't expect it to be a thrilling ride from start to finish. **Cast:** - Adam Scott as Ohm Bauman - Peter Coonan - David Wilmot - Florence Ordesh - Will O'Connell - Michael Patric - Austin Amelio - Brendan Conroy **Director-screenwriter:** Damian McCarthy **Rated R, 1 hour 41 minutes**