The Medium is a 2021 Thai-South Korean horror film directed by Banjong Pisanthanakun and produced by Na Hong-jin, known for his work on The Wailing. This supernatural horror story blends folk horror elements with a found-footage style, set in rural Thailand and exploring themes of family, tradition, and the dark forces lurking in everyday life. The Medium gained international attention for its chilling atmosphere, cultural depth, and immersive storytelling, positioning itself as a unique addition to the horror genre.

Plot Overview

The story follows Nim, a shaman living in a small village in Thailand, who claims to be possessed by the spirit of Ba Yan, a benevolent deity worshipped by her family for generations. When her niece, Mink, begins to display disturbing behavior, Nim suspects that Mink may be the next chosen vessel for Ba Yan. However, as Mink’s behavior becomes increasingly violent and erratic, it becomes clear that a darker, more malevolent spirit is at work. What starts as a seemingly benign spiritual possession turns into a horrifying battle for Mink’s soul, as her family and the villagers try to save her from the malevolent forces that have taken hold.

As the story unfolds through a documentary-style lens, the film delves deeper into the family’s supernatural legacy, gradually revealing the secrets and curses that have haunted them for generations. The story builds tension with a slow-burn approach, leading to a chilling climax where the full scope of the possession and its consequences are unleashed.

Visual Style and Cinematography

The Medium employs a found-footage, documentary-style approach that enhances the sense of realism and immediacy. Cinematographer Naruphol Chokanapitak captures the eerie, rural landscapes of northeastern Thailand, creating an atmospheric, foreboding setting that feels both beautiful and unsettling. The naturalistic visuals, combined with handheld camera movements, immerse viewers in the story, making them feel like participants in the unfolding nightmare. The film’s visual style intensifies the horror, as the grounded cinematography makes the supernatural elements feel disturbingly close to reality.

Performance

The cast, primarily featuring non-professional actors, delivers authentic and unsettling performances, enhancing the film’s realism. Narilya Gulmongkolpech, who plays Mink, is especially haunting in her role, portraying the gradual descent into possession with unsettling intensity. Her transformation from a rebellious young woman to a vessel for a dark entity is both chilling and tragic, capturing the terror and helplessness of her situation. Sawanee Utoomma as Nim, the shaman, brings depth to her character, depicting a woman torn between duty, fear, and the limits of her power. The performances make the supernatural story feel grounded, adding emotional weight to the horror.

Themes and Message

The Medium explores themes of cultural heritage, family bonds, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The film highlights the deep-rooted beliefs in spirits and shamanism within Thai culture, while also questioning the price of these traditions when they intersect with darker forces. At its core, the film is about the inescapable nature of destiny and the sacrifices made in the name of family, as Nim and her family confront the consequences of their spiritual legacy. The story also delves into the vulnerability of those who serve as conduits for higher powers, raising questions about agency, responsibility, and the boundaries between good and evil.

Conclusion

The Medium is a haunting, atmospheric horror film that blends cultural depth with intense, supernatural horror. With its found-footage style and authentic performances, it creates a sense of realism that heightens the terror of the story. For fans of folk horror and slow-burn supernatural thrillers, The Medium offers a unique and chilling experience, showcasing the power of cultural storytelling within the horror genre. Its exploration of family, tradition, and the supernatural leaves a lasting impact, making it a memorable and unsettling addition to modern horror cinema.