The Taking (2013) movie poster

The Taking

2013 ·1h 17m · ★ 2.5 (33)

Two strangers must discover a way to escape a sinister family who wishes to sacrifice their souls to an evil presence.

Why it matters

A tense, atmospheric folk horror descent into rural nightmare where ancient evil meets human desperation.

  • Revives the classic “cabin in the woods” trope with a slow-burning dread and genuine unease.
  • Practical effects and shadowy cinematography amplify the menace of the unseen supernatural force.
  • Ideal for fans of occult horror that leans on mood over gore — think early Ti West or Adam Wingard’s quieter moments.
  • The sinister family dynamic adds a claustrophobic, almost cultish intensity that drives the psychological terror.

Horror DNA

Gore
0
Slow Burn
50
Psychological
29
Supernatural
40
Creature
0
Disturbing
33
Fun Factor
33
Cerebral
0
Survival
66

Content Warnings

Dehumanization

Phobia triggers

Religious Imagery

Pairs Well With