Horror in the Forest (2024): A Modern Take on Found-Footage Terror
Horror in the Forest, directed by Brendan Rudnicki and Kellan Rudnicki, is a low-budget found-footage horror film that taps into primal fears of isolation and supernatural folklore. Released in 2024 after a limited theatrical run in 2023, the film centers around three paranormal investigators who explore the sinister legends surrounding Rudwick Forest, a remote, haunted wilderness plagued by mysterious disappearances and whispers of a vengeful witch.
The story is presented through the raw, shaky aesthetic typical of found-footage films, following characters Sabrina, Dylan, and Brent as they venture into the forest to document alleged paranormal events. Their initial skepticism slowly turns to fear as their equipment begins to malfunction, they hear eerie noises in the dark, and start experiencing disturbing phenomena that hint at the presence of something far more sinister than urban legend. As the tension builds, the group unravels both mentally and physically, with the forest itself seeming to close in on them.
What sets Horror in the Forest apart from other entries in the genre is its emphasis on atmosphere over jump scares. The Rudnicki brothers focus on building a sense of slow-burning dread, relying heavily on environmental sounds, dim lighting, and long, suspenseful takes. There is a noticeable attempt to build authenticity through character interactions and improvised dialogue, and while some scenes come off as stiff or awkward, others feel convincingly real—especially as the characters’ fear begins to escalate.
Visually, the film is surprisingly polished for a small indie project. The cinematography, while intentionally chaotic at times, includes carefully framed shots of the forest that add to the eerie tone. The filmmakers also make effective use of silence and stillness, creating an unsettling tension where viewers are left straining to see or hear what might be hiding in the background.
Critics have been divided in their responses. Some praised the film for being a well-shot and competent entry into the found-footage subgenre, especially considering its modest budget. Others criticized it for being too derivative, drawing heavy comparisons to The Blair Witch Project and offering little innovation. The acting, while earnest, has been noted as inconsistent, and the film’s pacing in the first half may feel slow for viewers expecting constant scares.
Despite these criticisms, Horror in the Forest has found a niche audience, particularly among fans of indie horror and found-footage storytelling. Viewers have highlighted the emotional bonds between the characters and the film’s commitment to its own mythology as redeeming qualities. It may not reinvent the genre, but it provides a satisfying blend of tension, folklore, and dread for those who appreciate horror that leaves more to the imagination.
In summary, Horror in the Forest is a solid indie horror film that embraces the strengths and weaknesses of found-footage cinema. It may not break new ground, but its atmospheric storytelling, eerie setting, and grounded performances make it a worthwhile watch for fans of slow-burn supernatural horror.
