Heir of the Witch (2023) is a supernatural horror film that marks the directorial debut of Victoria U. Bell, who also wrote and stars in the movie. Drawing from her Moldovan heritage, Bell crafts a narrative steeped in Eastern European folklore, focusing on themes of generational trauma and inherited curses.

The story centers on Anna, a Moldovan seamstress living in the United States, portrayed by Bell herself. Haunted by her family’s dark past—particularly her grandmother, a witch known as a Strigoaică—Anna strives to assimilate into high society while caring for her ailing aunt. As she becomes entangled with affluent clients, supernatural forces from her lineage begin to surface, threatening her pursuit of a normal life.​

The film employs sepia tones, symbolic imagery, and traditional horror elements to create a haunting atmosphere. While certain scenes effectively evoke dread, others have been criticized for relying on predictable jump scares and underwhelming special effects.​

Heir of the Witch is a passion project that offers a unique glimpse into Moldovan folklore through the lens of supernatural horror. While it showcases potential and cultural authenticity, the film’s execution may not resonate with all viewers. For those interested in folklore-driven narratives and indie horror films, it might be worth a watch.​