The Dybbuk: A haunting, strange relic from another world

Is it worth your time?

If you have any patience for black-and-white cinema that moves to its own, strange rhythm, absolutely. You should watch The Dybbuk if you like ghost stories that feel like they were carved out of wood and shadow. If you need snappy editing or modern pacing, stay far, far away. You will likely be bored to tears within the first ten minutes.

There is a weight to this film that I wasn't expecting. It isn't just a movie; it feels like an artifact.

The atmosphere

The shadows here aren't just for show. They feel heavy, like they might actually crush the characters if they stand in the wrong corner of the room. The way the light hits the actors' faces during the religious ceremonies—it’s honestly a bit creepy.

I found myself staring at the background details more than the actual plot at one point. There’s a scene in the synagogue where the extras seem to be doing their own thing, totally unbothered by the main drama. It’s oddly grounded, like watching a real neighborhood gossip session happen behind a curtain.

The weird bits

The possession sequence is… something else. It isn't the flashy, CGI-heavy stuff we get in modern horror. It’s just a voice, a movement, a shift in the eyes. It feels more honest than anything I’ve seen in a long time.

Some of the acting feels like it belongs on a stage rather than a screen. Sometimes the gestures are just a little too big for the camera lens. It’s slightly imperfect, sure, but that’s exactly why it works. It feels like a performance being given to a packed house, not a polished product for a streaming service.

Connecting the dots

It’s funny how movies like this share a DNA with old-school horror. I was reminded of the eerie stillness in The Black Cat, where the silence is often louder than the shouting. Both films use their sets to make the world feel smaller, tighter, and way more dangerous.

There's a moment when Chonen is just staring at the wall, and the camera lingers for—I don’t know, maybe twenty seconds too long? It stops being a movie moment and starts feeling like you’re invading someone’s privacy. I loved it.

Final thoughts

Don't look for a perfect narrative flow. The Dybbuk isn't interested in holding your hand or making sure you understand the rules of its magic. It just demands that you sit there and let it happen to you.

It’s not perfect. The pacing is a total wreck by modern standards. But I’d rather watch this again than sit through another slick, soulless remake. 🕯️