Part 2/9:
The film opens with an idyllic portrayal of village life, as the community mourns the loss of a young boy. The tight-knit group of villagers is led by elder Edward Walker, who, alongside his fellow elders, upholds traditions that keep the villagers obedient and fearful of the forest. The villagers have created a symbolic barrier between themselves and the world beyond, which is emphasized by their burial customs—anything red is considered dangerous and thus buried.
As the village grapples with the recent tragedy, Lucius Hunt emerges as a pivotal character. His inquisitive nature leads him to seek out medicines from the neighboring towns, inciting the ire of the elders who are fearful of the repercussions that breaking the village’s truce with the creatures might bring.