"Bagman" (2024) is a fresh horror film directed by Colm McCarthy and starring Sam Claflin. Set against Bulgaria's haunting landscapes, the movie is about Patrick McKee, a father who must face an evil figure from his childhood. The creature, known in various cultures as El Kuko or Torbalan, is a terrifying, undead troll that kidnaps children.
While "Bagman" captures the eerie folklore well, its reception has been mixed. Critics praised the Bulgarian setting for adding to the creepiness, but some found the plot predictable. The film follows a traditional horror structure with jump scares and tense moments, making it enjoyable for casual fans but lacking originality for horror veterans. The performances, particularly from Claflin, were strong, but the film’s pacing and scare factor could have been better developed.
Despite these issues, "Bagman" adds to Bulgaria’s growing reputation as a great location for horror films, with its atmospheric, dark visuals and an interesting folklore foundation. Fans of myth-based horror will find this a decent addition to their collection, especially if they enjoy films set in creepy, remote locations.