The Old Ways (2020) is a compelling folk horror film that explores cultural identity and ancestral trauma through a terrifying supernatural lens. The story follows Cristina, a journalist who travels to her family's homeland in Veracruz to document local healing practices, only to be captured by villagers who believe she's possessed by a demon. Director Christopher Alender creates a tense, atmospheric thriller that blends psychological horror with authentic Mexican folklore.

Brigitte Kali Canales delivers a powerful performance as Cristina, portraying her transformation from skeptical outsider to someone confronting her own heritage and the supernatural forces within it. The supporting cast, including Andrea Cortés as the local healer Luz, adds depth to this exploration of traditional beliefs versus modern skepticism.

What makes The Old Ways particularly engaging is its authentic representation of Mexican folk traditions and the genuine tension between cultural preservation and personal freedom. The film's modest budget is used effectively to create a claustrophobic, unsettling atmosphere that relies more on psychological dread than cheap jump scares.

Viewers should watch The Old Ways for its unique approach to possession narratives, its respectful engagement with indigenous traditions, and its thought-provoking examination of how we relate to our ancestral past. The film offers a fresh perspective in the horror genre while delivering genuine scares and a compelling character journey that will linger long after the credits roll.