Horror Short Review: Ancient Voice (2021)

Directed by Can Sağır who co-wrote the story with Erdeniz Tunç, Ancient Voice is a horror short that leaves an impression. Especially when your knowledge of Turkic mythology is pretty much zero, as is the case here.

A vampiric-like creature, an Obur/Ubir is a mythological being that is said to survive on the blood of living creatures. It comes from Turkic folklore and serves as the inspiration behind this horror short.

Zeynep (Berna Toy) is a young journalism student writing a report on a recent incident that has left an indelible mark on her psyche. As she writes, she remembers what took place and we see she visited a house in a small village that had a bad reputation.

She went with a young man named Efe (Samet Kızıltaş) who convinced her to come and check out the house. He believes something or someone lives in the abandoned house and dead animals have been found outside.

Her interest is aroused by Efe’s attempts to link the house to myths. As they stand it front of it, there is a strong sense of foreboding. What awaits them in the darkness?

You’ll have to check it out yourself to find out but rest assured, Ancient Voice is a satisfying watch. One that has chilling atmosphere, just enough visual horror moments to thrill and a payoff that enhances the mythology it is based in. Check it out yourself below.