Moloch is a Shudder original Dutch horror film that isn’t so much a slow burn as it just takes a long time to get to the point. But, once it does, it’s suitably creepy and almost makes an argument for having you sit on your butt for so long waiting for something – anything – to happen.

The flick is about a small family home in a small town near an ancient peat bog where archeologists have uncovered the mummified remains of dozens of girls and women. Each apparently sacrificed to an ancient god named Moloch… and maybe the rite isn’t so ancient.

Yeah, it’s another film where a cult is coming for the people in an isolated house. And while some of the mood is unsettling, it really meanders its way into even having this much of a plot. This flick makes a strong argument for being part of a short film anthology.

When the weird and the creepy kicks in, the film certainly oozes the sins and sacrifices of the ancient past. There’s a decent amount to be said for being able to generate this atmosphere. But it also kind of doesn’t go anywhere… the end is a bit of a whiff even with a decently creepy creature effect. And there’s a final impactful moment… but I kind of just had to shrug at it. So what?

Not a terrible movie but maybe one that will try your patience. There’s definitely some good old fashioned folk horror going on… once it gets around to it. Maybe check it out… or not.

Score: 72