Running Time: 94 Minutes
As Rupert Russell opens his latest documentary with a seemingly cheery video, you would be forgiven for thinking that you are watching the wrong film. What unfolds appears to be an informative piece about the lovely locale, before creepy flashes of red are intercut to hint at something darker lurking underneath the happy façade. The setting is Lower Quinton, 1945, where a man named Charles Walton was brutally murdered. This horrific act is the cornerstone of The Last Sacrifice, as that true crime was the inspiration for folk horror, and particularly a massive example of the subgenre, 1973's The Wicker Man.
To set this documentary apart, director Russell offers a unique approach to covering this true crime. To set the scene and convey the story being told, footage from other films (particularly folk horror) are utilized the realise what the talking head interviews are detailing. It is fun to see such footage used to dramatize the story which preceded those very films. There are also uses of real-life footage, with the two differentiated by on-screen text which reads FACT or FICTION.
Also nestled within is documentary footage showing witchcraft in a then-modern world, capturing how it was reported on and represented in the media. While there is often coverage about victims of witchcraft, it becomes clear that they are actually innocent people who were accused based on flimsy accusations. This is an effective reflection of what Russell is capturing, looking into the dark heart of Britain which lurks beneath the mask of politeness, and the fear that we are all capable of turning on each other so viciously.
The case was never solved, a matter that was not helped due to the locals being unhelpful to investigating police. As a result, the documentary puts forward a number of theories regarding what the motive may have been and who could have been responsible. There is only so much that can be said regarding this, and there are moments where it can feel like the documentary is stretching itself due to the real life barriers that impacted the case.
Those are only momentary instances, as the direction and editing ensure that this story feels full of vitality instead of an idea stretched out. The biggest boon to this documentary is how it is presented, particularly as the score effectively runs throughout to convey creepiness and an unsettling tone. It all makes up The Last Sacrifice, ensuring it is a fascinating work that is compellingly told. Be sure to stay for the epilogue, as what runs through the credits is absolutely worth your time.
The Last Sacrifice made its UK Premiere at FrightFest Glasgow 2025
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