Is ‘Incantation’ Based on a True Story? The Horror Film Was Inspired by Real-Life Events

Many people are left pondering whether the movie "Incantation" is based on a true story, given its unsettling themes that prompt viewers to question the possibility of being cursed. The director has shed light on the intentions behind this enigmatic film.

"Incantation," a Netflix film that has taken the movie community by storm, combines elements of the supernatural and its characters' moral and emotional dilemmas. As news of a sequel emerges, it promises to deliver more chilling moments.

While the film's interactive themes have captured the attention of horror enthusiasts, there remains a lingering question about its origins, leaving some to wonder if it has roots in reality.

What Is 'Incantation' All About?

There are several films and TV shows that offer a blend of horror, mystery, survival, and psychological thrillers, but the 2022 Taiwanese film "Incantation" stands out as one of today's most spine-chilling movies.

The film captivates its audience with a unique storytelling approach that undoubtedly unsettles viewers. It revolves around Li Ronan, portrayed by actress Tsai Hsuan-yen, in a gripping horror-mystery narrative.

After breaking a religious taboo six years ago, Ronan firmly believes that her daughter, Dodo, played by Huang Sin-ting, has fallen under a vicious curse from a diety. Ronan seeks the audience's help to join her in breaking the curse by memorizing and chanting a potent incantation.

The trailer opens with the protagonist delivering thought-provoking questions like, "Do you believe in blessings?" and includes interactive tests that challenge viewers' focus and perception.

Throughout the trailer, viewers catch glimpses of a hidden altar of a mysterious statue of a deity and characters that appear possessed. There is also a scene where the protagonist's daughter spots something on the ceiling that's invisible to her mother's eyes.

Is 'Incantation' Based on a True Story?

"Incantation" has left many viewers uneasy, as its central character seems to have cast a curse upon them. For those curious about the film, it is entirely a work of fiction and not a true story.

However, the film's storyline drew inspiration from a 2005 incident in Kaohsiung, where a Taiwanese family claimed to have experienced demonic influence and tragically lost their eldest daughter.

Directed by Kevin Ko and co-written with Chang Che-wei, "Incantation" cleverly blurs the line between reality and fiction by using a mockumentary style of filmmaking. Ko shared some intriguing insights into the film's concept:

"The idea started from the chain letter and it had to be infectious, so found footage is the format that is closest to this kind of infection."

Ko mentioned that he was initially searching for something truly frightening, and he stumbled upon the Kaohsiung incident that he found too eerie and terrifying to investigate further. Fear and curiosity about the incident motivated Ko to amplify his unsettling feeling of not wanting to know more.

The director also explained that "Incantation" is a film that should not be continued or watched, comparing it to a "poison" and suggesting that there is a similar vibe between the true event and the storyline of his own work.

Shortly after the film's success, Ko revealed that "Incantation" will have its sequel and that he is currently in the planning stage of the film.

In addition to drawing inspiration from a past incident, "Incantation" also mesmerizes its audience with captivating portrayals of a mother-daughter relationship and fascinating ancient rituals and practices.

Ko's film takes a profound dive into the notion that certain actions, even seemingly innocuous or uninformed ones, can set in motion a chain of events that ultimately lead to dire consequences.

The movie delves into complex themes such as curses, fate, and redemption, examining how the echoes of the past reverberate in the present. It even explores the idea of surviving the dire repercussions of one's actions.

"Incantation" bears striking resemblances to a few other films, including the 2014 thriller "It Follows," starring Maika Monroe, and the 1999 "The Blair Witch Project." Another movie akin to Ko's work is "The Ring" franchise, which involved a cursed videotape.

A Sequel to 'Incantation' Reportedly in Development

Shortly after the film's success, Ko revealed that "Incantation" will have its sequel and that he is currently in the planning stage of the film. The sequel will focus on Duo Duo's survival, and Hsuan-yen will reprise her role as the kid's mother.

The film initially premiered in Taiwan in March 2022 and has grossed $5.7 million at the box office, becoming the highest-earning film in Taiwan in 2023. It's regarded as the most successful original Taiwanese horror film to date.

Netflix recently acquired the global streaming rights to the film, and Ko expressed pride in its worldwide release in July 2022. This accomplishment fulfills Ko's dream of reaching horror fans across the globe, and he eagerly anticipates viewer reactions.