"Tarot" is an upcoming supernatural horror film that delves into the dark mysteries of a cursed tarot deck discovered by a group of college friends during a weekend getaway. As they face gruesome deaths that eerily match their tarot predictions, the film explores the origins of the deck, the archetypal characters, and the tension between fate and free will. Directed by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, "Tarot" stands out by focusing on the rich symbolism of tarot cards, offering a unique twist on the horror genre. Despite mixed reviews, the film has achieved notable box office success and has already sparked plans for a sequel, promising to delve deeper into its chilling lore.
During a weekend getaway in the Catskills, seven college friends—Haley, Grant, Paxton, Paige, Elise, Lucas, and Madeline—stumble upon an ancient set of tarot cards in a secret room filled with astrological artifacts. Despite initial reluctance, Haley, who has experience with tarot readings, performs a reading for the group. Soon after, the friends begin to die in ways that eerily match their tarot predictions, such as Elise's death by ladder and Lucas's by subway train. As the gruesome deaths continue, the group realizes they must uncover the mystery behind the cursed deck to escape their foretold fates. The malevolent entities from the tarot cards, including a spirit known as "The Astrologer," manifest to exact their vengeance, leading to a desperate race against time to break the curse and survive145.
The origins of the Cursed Tarot Deck in "Tarot" are shrouded in mystery, adding an intriguing layer to the film's supernatural premise. According to lore within the movie, the deck is believed to have been created by either a powerful seer or a malevolent entity, imbuing it with dark, prophetic powers1. This ancient artifact is discovered by the protagonists in a secret room filled with astrological relics, suggesting a connection to celestial mysticism and occult practices.
The deck's sinister nature is manifested through its ability to summon a malevolent astrologer who brings the haunting characters pictured on each card to life2. This unique concept allows the film to explore the rich symbolism of tarot cards while creating a visually striking and unsettling atmosphere. The Cursed Deck serves as both a plot device and a character in its own right, driving the narrative forward and challenging the characters' beliefs about fate and free will.
The film explores the interplay between fate and free will through the characters' interactions with the Cursed Tarot Deck. Some believe that tarot can predict an unalterable destiny, while others argue that the cards merely show potential outcomes that can be changed through the exercise of free will.12 The characters must grapple with whether their gruesome fates are predetermined by the deck's dark prophecies or if they have the power to alter their circumstances and escape doom.34 This tension between accepting one's fate versus taking action to shape a different future is a central theme that adds depth and complexity to the characters' struggles against the supernatural evil unleashed by the tarot.5
