The Severed Sun review

By Mark Hockley

There is a long history of British folk horror films with The Wicker Man (1973) standing as the masterpiece of this sub genre. 

The Severed Sun is a far more low-key endeavour, but it is at least graced with strong performances. Writer/director Dean Puckett sets his story in a countryside community, the exact era not stated, but the simplicity of clothing and lifestyle gives the impression of a bygone time. However, there are brief shots of roads and power lines, so perhaps this is meant to be some kind of isolated cult. 

Focusing on the daughter of a pastor (a commanding Toby Stephens) who murders her abusive husband, Emma Appleton in the leading role commands the screen. The story does move at a slow pace though, so the viewer needs to remain patient. In supporting roles, the ever dependable Jodhi May and Barney Harris (The Wheel of Time) add class and gravitas to the proceedings. 

This film is based on Puckett’s 2018 short, The Sermon and has obviously been expanded, despite having a runtime of less than 90 minutes. If there is any real criticism to be made against this production, it’s the pacing. While the setting of fields and woods are attractively shot, there are stretches where some extra energy would have added impetus. Also, the music score by Benjamin Hudson under the alias Unknown Horrors, is underwhelming. 

This has been labelled a creature feature by some and there is indeed an otherworldly beast lurking in the woods. Whether real or imaginary, the creature represents the emotional and psychological toll religious repression and control takes on the characters. Barney Harris’ John struggles with his sexuality, while trying to do what is expected of him and Appleton’s Magpie rebels against her authoritarian father. 

Whatever your own personal take may be, thanks to a fine cast and an articulate script, this is a well mounted feature that commands respect. While so many lower budget films can appear somewhat amateurish, this film is professional in all departments. This may seem like faint praise, but it’s not to be undervalued. 

In the final analysis, The Severed Sun is admittedly small scale, but what it sets out to achieve is successfully executed. 

The Severed Sun is released on digital from 6 October 2025.