Artsy Visuals Haunt More Than Story

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MOVIE REVIEW
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Mitchell Altieri
Writer(s): David Calbert
Cast: Courtney Halverson, Mark Famiglietti, Devon Sawa
Where To Watch: releases in select theaters and On Demand on August 16, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Mitchell Altieri's latest film takes us on a journey that intertwines psychological elements with bone-chilling creature feature antics in the eerie wilderness. Here, the wilderness is not just a backdrop but a catalyst for terror. With a plot as murky as the forest fog, the movie makes an ambitious attempt to blend the natural and supernatural but wanders a bit too far off the beaten path. With that being said, I do have to mention that traditionally “artsy” horror isn’t my cup of tea, but there was something here; the “weird” wasn’t just for the sake of being weird, but it helped to amplify the story, and for that, I give my genuine praise!

Beth (Courtney Halverson) and Jay (Mark Famiglietti,) a couple recovering from recent medical trauma, retreat into the great outdoors, seeking peace and perhaps adventure. But their escape quickly spirals into a nightmare as the narrative attempts to stitch their battles with a broader, darker tapestry of horror. This approach should amplify the tension, but instead, the forest setting loses its potential impact, fading into the background rather than fueling the fear.

Enter Devon Sawa’s character, Quinn, a mysterious figure whose rugged exterior hides a complex inner world. Sawa, a veteran at portraying multifaceted characters, adds a much-needed edge to the unfolding drama, but the script doesn’t quite tap into the full breadth of his talents. Quinn straddles the line between ally and antagonist, adding layers to the plot but also muddying the waters in a storyline already thick with uncertainty.

The movie's treatment of its central horror—the Wendigo—relies heavily on CGI and visual effects to deliver its scares, oscillating between subtly eerie and overtly ghostlike appearances. This modern take on an ancient myth might appeal to viewers looking for straightforward thrills but might disappoint those well-versed in the creature’s rich folklore origins.

The film's pacing mimics a hesitant trek through a thick forest; it starts with a promising build-up that unfortunately fades a little as the movie progresses. The middle of the film feels like its searching for a deeper meaning, lacking the steady escalation of terror necessary to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

As the movie nears its climax, it attempts to reconnect with the emotional core of Beth and Jay’s relationship, striving to infuse the narrative with depth and poignancy. However, this last-ditch effort to deepen the plot feels more like an afterthought, leaving the resolution predictable and unsatisfying. What should be a heartrending finale? Instead, it feels undercooked and leaves many questions unanswered.

Despite these narrative shortcomings, the performances, particularly by Halverson, are a highlight. Halverson portrays Beth with a compelling blend of vulnerability and strength, making her character’s journey one of the more authentic elements of the film. The cinematography also stands out, beautifully capturing the forest's haunting, often oppressive atmosphere, which becomes one of the film's more memorable aspects.

The reinterpretation of the Wendigo myth as a reflection of vulnerability and sickness adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. This aspect takes the film in an exciting direction, although I wish they had dove deeper into the connection between this myth and the world Beth and Jay inhabit.

The movie offers a visually engaging experience with moments of genuine chills. Ultimately, the film ends up as a middle-of-the-road horror entry, likely to capture the interest of genre enthusiasts but not potent enough to linger in the minds of those seeking a more profound narrative experience. For those enticed by the promise of a deep dive into psychological and supernatural horror, this film might feel like a trek through the woods that doesn’t entirely lead anywhere.

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[photo courtesy of BRAINSTORM MEDIA]

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