The Blair Witch Project (1999)

Foundational to found footage, The Blair Witch Project represents a small revolution in not just inventive filmmaking but also guerrilla marketing. Given the timing of its release, there were legitimate questions among viewers about the authenticity of The Blair Witch Project; this alone is a testament to its effectiveness.

A large burden was placed upon the performers, both physically and creatively, and the results don't disappoint as we watch our trio spiral into madness in the unending forest. The performers are not only our lead characters but were also responsible for shooting almost the entire film. There was an extremely high level of improvisation, with the performers being drip-fed the details of the story as they moved between filming locations.

The lore of the film is loose, much to its benefit, as it makes the climax more mysterious. Similarly, the exact details of what is stalking them by night are never made fully apparent, leaving the audience curious. One particular highlight was the opening section of interviews, some with actors, some with regular people. Their knowing looks and candid commentary on local lore convey far more than volumes of text could.

Unfortunately, the film's strengths are also its weaknesses; it is at times too nondescript, leaving the viewer with little to "do". While some of the forest scenes are chilling, others feel as though more setwork could have been done to create a visually distinct scene. The improvisation at its best is compelling but at its worst it degrades into occasional moments of monotony between our characters.

Essential as genre cinema, The Blair Witch Project may not land as squarely with mainstream viewers.