Alchemist's Cookbook

Black history month horror article

Black History Month:

The Alchemist Cookbook

February is an interesting time for horror fans. It’s the month of Valentine’s, which makes us all a little doe eyed when we watch “My Bloody Valentine.” However, it is also Women in Horror Month and Black History Month which gives us a double dose of overlooked gems and a time to reflect on a few game changers along the way.

I got a chance to revisit one of the best indie films in recent years, “ The Alchemist’s Cookbook.” Joel Potrykus’ genre bending flick follows Sean, a young black man on an isolated quest to decipher the mysteries of the arcane and to fine fortune. Of course, the principles of equivalent exchange is anything but equivalent.

This film deserves praise for almost every aspect of it but the cast absolutely kills its. Sean, played by Ty Hickson, is such an interesting character! He is more than just s troupe. He listens to everything from classical music to hip hop to punk, he practices witchcraft and alchemy in the woods… not voodoo and isn’t afraid to break toxic traits usually forced on to young black men by films and society in general.

This character takes a film about demons and magic and makes it very socially conscious. Potrykus has always been a voice for the poor and low class but with a little forethought he is able to shatter preconceived notions of race and class without being preachy. He progresses equality without you realizing he even did it.

Black History is full of horrors but horror has always been the great equalizer. When faced with a true fear… we are only known by our screams!

IMDB:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5128826/

Available on TUBI:

https://tubitv.com/movies/583946/the-alchemist-cookbook?start=true&tracking=google-feed&utm_source=google-feed