Having mesmerized audiences as a Director’s Fortnight standout at Cannes, along with celebrated festival runs at Sitges, Fantastic Fest, and BIFF, Julia Kowalski’s Her Will Be Done is officially heading to North American screens.
The dramatic, female-driven occult folk horror feature opens exclusively in New York City at The Roxy Cinema on September 24th. Screenings on September 23rd, 25th, and 27th at The Roxy Cinema will feature live Q&A sessions with director Julia Kowalski and star Roxane Mesquida.
A Dark Rural Legacy of Curses and Desire
The film is set against the muddy, isolating backdrop of a small French farming village. Nawojka is a young woman trapped between her overprotective father, ungrateful brothers, and the need to keep her family’s failing farm afloat. However, while she dreams of escaping to veterinary school, Nawojka harbors a far darker burden. She has inherited the demonic curse that claimed her mother’s life.
Plagued by agonizing visions that manifest in reality, she spends her nights fighting the pull of evil. However, when Sandra, the rebellious daughter of her neighbors, returns to town, things intensify. Sandra’s presence awakens forbidden desires in Nawojka. It sparks an intense connection between two outsiders as they become desperate to break free from the suffocating toxic masculinity and judgment surrounding them.
Ethereal Visuals and Atmospheric Horror
In her second feature, Julia Kowalski aims to create a psychedelic, claustrophobic journey. One that explores rural oppression and spiritual turmoil. A commanding lead performance by Maria Wróbel, alongside Roxane Mesquida, brings the film to life as it blends surreal visual storytelling with deep-seated horror themes. Stunning cinematography by Simon Beaufils and a haunting score by Daniel Kowalski elevate the experience.
Her Will Be Done promises a brutal, beautiful exploration of trauma, forbidden love, and demonic influence. One that promises to leave a lasting mark on contemporary folk horror. So, if you can’t make it to the Roxy, there’s good news. Her Will Be Done will be released nationwide on VOD on October 2nd via Yellow Veil.
