Watch London Voodoo

London Voodoo is a 2004 horror movie directed by Robert Pratten. The story follows a young man named Danny (Doug Cockle), who travels to London from America to visit his girlfriend, Susan (Sara Stewart), who is studying anthropology. However, things take a dark turn when Susan is discovered dead, and Danny is suspected of her murder. Despite his pleas of innocence, Danny is forced to go on the run and seek out the mysterious forces behind Susan's death.

The film takes place in London's underground scene, with a focus on voodoo and African spirituality. Danny's journey takes him through gritty, back-alley markets and into the lives of several different characters, each with their own connection to the supernatural. Along the way, he discovers that Susan was deeply involved with a group of voodoo practitioners, and that her death may have been the result of a powerful curse. As Danny delves deeper into the world of voodoo, he begins to experience strange visions and hallucinations, unsure of what is real and what is not.

One of the standout aspects of London Voodoo is its incorporation of real-life voodoo practices and beliefs. The film portrays voodoo and African spirituality in a respectful manner, with a deep appreciation for their cultural significance. From the use of traditional instruments and chants to the portrayal of different voodoo deities, the movie feels like a genuine tribute to this rich and complex tradition.

The film's pacing is slow and methodical, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the world of voodoo. The cinematography is dark and moody, with a lot of emphasis on shadows and silhouettes. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting gives the movie a raw, unfiltered feel, as if we are peeking into a world we were never meant to see.

Doug Cockle gives a solid performance as Danny, portraying a man pushed to the edge of his sanity. His desperation is palpable, and we can feel his frustration at not being able to clear his name. Sara Stewart, although not onscreen for very long, leaves a lasting impression as Susan, with a haunting presence that lingers long after her death.

The supporting characters are all well-crafted, each with their own unique quirks and motivations. A standout performance comes from Grace Sprott, who plays Marie, a powerful Mambo priestess who helps Danny on his journey. Her screen presence is electric, and her scenes are some of the most captivating in the film.

However, the movie's slow pace and lack of action may not appeal to everyone. There are moments where the film drags, and some viewers may find themselves losing interest. Additionally, the portrayal of African spirituality may be a touchy subject for some, and the film's focus on voodoo may be seen as perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Overall, London Voodoo is a unique and fascinating horror movie that delves deep into the world of voodoo and African spirituality. While its slow pace and lack of action may not be for everyone, those who appreciate intelligent horror and atmospheric filmmaking will find a lot to enjoy. The film's respectful portrayal of voodoo and its incorporation of real-life traditions make it a standout in the genre.

London Voodoo is a 2004 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.0.