Adam Scott, known primarily for his comedic work, is venturing further into the horror genre with his new supernatural film "Hokum," now showing in theaters. Directed by Damian McCarthy, the movie features Scott as Ohm Bauman, a prickly author who travels to Ireland to scatter his parents’ ashes near a remote hotel where they had honeymooned. The hotel’s infamous honeymoon suite is said to be haunted by a witch, a story Ohm initially dismisses as "hokum." However, when a hotel employee who showed him kindness disappears, Ohm becomes determined to uncover the truth while confronting his own past.

The film incorporates a range of unsettling elements, including eerie ghosts, claustrophobic settings like dumbwaiters, and a disturbing children’s show, all designed to build tension and fear. Scott said the film’s scares resonated with him personally, despite the controlled environment of the soundstage. He recounted a particularly unnerving experience during a post-production recording session with McCarthy when he was asked to record the sound of his character’s breathing. As Scott performed the scene, he envisioned the ghost of Ohm’s deceased mother appearing behind him, which startled him enough to make him yelp out loud. McCarthy was surprised by the reaction but agreed that the unexpected moment underscored the film’s effectiveness.

Scott’s connection to horror dates back to his early career, including a role in 1996’s "Hellraiser: Bloodline," although he admits he was not initially a fan of the franchise. Reflecting on his personal taste, he highlighted his appreciation for horror films that excel as strong character-driven stories, citing John Carpenter’s "The Thing," "Hereditary," "The Shining," and "An American Werewolf in London" as examples. According to Scott, these films work both as compelling narratives and as effective horror, a balance he appreciates and hopes to continue exploring in his own projects.

"Hokum" blends supernatural scares with introspective themes as Ohm navigates the eerie hotel and unravels its mysteries. With Scott’s growing involvement in the genre, the film adds another dimension to his versatile career.