Ghoul

There seems to be some confusion regarding the title “Ghoul.” There are actually two productions that share this name: a 2015 found-footage horror film and a 2018 Indian miniseries on Netflix. Let’s delve into the details of each to help you identify the Ghoul you’re interested in.

Ghoul : Unearthing a Cannibalistic Legend

This Ghoul takes a chilling approach to horror through the lens of found footage.

The story follows an American film crew venturing deep into the unsettling landscape of Ukraine. Driven by a thirst for sensationalism, they aim to capture evidence of rumored widespread cannibalism.

Hunting for a Monster:

• Story Premise: The crew ventures into a remote area, supposedly rife with cannibalistic activity. They conduct interviews and explore abandoned locations, hoping to find proof of the gruesome folklore.

• The Allure of Darkness: As they delve deeper, the crew’s initial skepticism wanes. They encounter unsettling locals and witness strange occurrences that heighten their fear and paranoia.

• Unveiling the Horror: Their investigation takes a horrifying turn when they inadvertently summon the spirit of Andrei Chikatilo, a notorious real-life serial killer and cannibal who terrorized the Soviet Union.

Terror Through the Lens:

• Found Footage Format: The film utilizes the shaky camerawork and limited perspective inherent in found footage, creating a sense of raw, unfiltered terror.

• Building Suspense: The film relies on building suspense gradually. The crew’s initial bravado crumbles as they face mounting evidence of the darkness that lurks beneath the surface.

• Psychological Horror: Ghoul (2015) delves into the psychological impact of fear and paranoia. The crew’s isolation and the oppressive atmosphere fuel their descent into madness.

Ghoul : A Haunting Tale of State Power and the Supernatural

This Ghoul, a miniseries on Netflix, offers a unique blend of horror and social commentary. Set in India, the story unfolds within the confines of a detention center known for its brutality.

A Look Behind the Walls:

• Setting the Stage: The narrative centers around Nida Rahim, a young interrogation officer who joins the facility. The detention center houses suspected terrorists, and the methods employed are far from humane.

• A Questionable Arrival: Nida’s arrival coincides with the detainment of a mysterious young man, suspected of terrorism. However, his calm demeanor and cryptic pronouncements raise doubts about his guilt.

• The Weight of Power: The series explores the themes of state power and its potential for abuse. Nida grapples with her conscience as she witnesses the brutality inflicted upon detainees.

Supernatural Elements Emerge:

• Folklore and Fear: The series incorporates elements of Arab folklore, specifically the concept of ghouls – malevolent creatures that feed on the recently deceased.

• Blurring the Lines: As the story progresses, the lines between reality and the supernatural begin to blur. Nida experiences strange visions and unsettling occurrences, questioning her sanity.

• Confronting the Entity: Nida must confront not only the horrors of the detention center but also a potentially malevolent supernatural entity that preys on the center’s detainees.

Social Commentary Undercurrent:

• A Critique of Power: Ghoul (2018) uses the horror genre to deliver a potent social commentary. The series critiques the abuse of power by the state and the dehumanization of those deemed a threat.

• The Price of Fear: The series explores how fear can be manipulated to justify violence and cruelty. It sheds light on the psychological toll such environments take on both the perpetrators and the victims.

Choosing Your Ghoul:

Hopefully, this breakdown of the two “Ghoul” productions helps you identify the one you’re interested in. Whether you seek the chills of a found-footage horror or a thought-provoking horror series with social commentary, there’s a Ghoul waiting to be experienced.