Overview
#TheWitch emerged with Robert Eggers’ directorial debut, a Puritan-era horror film set in 1630s New England. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, it premiered at Sundance 2015 and was released widely in February 2016.
Cultural Impact
The film redefined folk horror for modern audiences and launched both Eggers and Taylor-Joy to prominence. Its period-accurate dialogue and slow-burn dread divided mainstream audiences but earned critical devotion.
Peak Moments
- Sundance 2015: Won directing award, instant buzz
- 2016 release: A24’s breakout horror hit
- “Black Phillip” memes: The goat became a cultural icon
- “Wouldst thou like to live deliciously?” became a catchphrase
The hashtag tracked discussions of the film’s ambiguity, historical accuracy, and feminist readings.