RAW

IT’S THE ARTHOUSE, not Hollywood, that’s pushing the boundaries of horror. Centred on a vegan veterinary student who turns cannibal after a hazing ritual, French indie Raw has huge crossover potential. Unlikely as it sounds, it’s this year’s The Witch. “It’s weird, but the films have a lot in common,” says debut director Julia Ducournau. “They’re both about a girl struggling with sexual awakening while trying to escape her family.”

Powered by a breakout turn from teenager Garance Marillier, Raw’s realistic, chewy effects have caused walk-outs and faintings on the festival circuit, but don’t believe the hard-gore hype: chances are you’ll be too taken by the characters to think about puking. “It’s a risky movie to digest because it doesn’t present a taboo like a circus freak,” adds Ducournau. “I just wanted people to love a cannibal.” With body-horror and metamorphosis as its core themes, it’s a unique, Cronenbergian experience. Be afraid. Be excited. But maybe skip the hotdogs. SIMON CROOK