I know this is another one that Roger did recently, but I just had to throw my hat in the ring for this one. I want to start off by saying how much I love that the subject of bigfoot in horror movies is almost becoming its own sub-genre. I love the subject matter and I think that it being paired with the found footage craze is like pairing peanut butter and jelly… it just makes sense! My recent review of Hunting the Legend will attest to that, but even more proof is right here with Bobcat Goldthwait’s Willow Creek.
I won’t waste anybody’s time by writing out the entire synopsis again because you can see that in Roger’s review. All you need to know is that Jim and his girlfriend Kelly go on a trip into the woods to find evidence of the legend known as bigfoot. As soon as nightfall hits, it’s game on!
I’m not sure there are too many directors out there that can pull off an almost 20 minute, seemingly single cut scene of just staring at two actors faces the entire time. I felt like I was in the tent with them, hearing every howl, clenching at every distant knocking sound. I’m telling you, if you watch this movie in the dark, by yourself, with the volume turned up loud, you will be frightened. It is a perfect example of a horror film that captivates you with without using all of the bells and whistles to do so.
I loved Willow Creek from start to finish. The only negative thing I can honestly say about this film is that we didn’t actually get to see any bigfoot creatures. In the end, this may be the right decision, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want a peek at the big guy! Although, I’m sure I would have been even more disappointed if they did show the monster on screen and it looked like a man in a monkey suit…
I give this film 4 bigfoot burgers out of 5 and recommend you check it out for yourself. It is available from Dark Sky Films this Tuesday, September 9, so be sure to purchase your copy!
