Rootwood

Rootwood is an absorbing horror-thriller that masterfully blends true-crime documentary scaffolding with the dread of classic folk horror. Released in 2018, it stars Tyler Gallant, Elissa Dowling, and Sarah French in the leading roles. The story follows two students who set off into the woods in pursuit of a legendary creature. However, their initial exciting journey soon turns into a nerve-wracking nightmare as inexplicable and terrifying occurrences disrupt their mission.

Rootwood opens with two young, ambitious podcasters, William and Jessica, portrayed by Tyler Gallant and Elissa Dowling. They are passionate about investigating and exploring dark urban legends and unsolved mysteries for their show, "The Spooky Hour." Their excavations of local lore lead them to the mysterious tale of the curse of the Wooden Devil, a lethal creature said to inhabit the cursed Rootwood Forest. Their enthusiasm catches the eye of a Hollywood producer who offers them an opportunity too tantalizing to resist. He calls on them to delve deeper into the myth and make a documentary about the Wooden Devil. Intrigued and thirsty for fame, the duo embarks on an expedition into Rootwood Forest, accompanied by their Hollywood actress friend, Erin, played by Sarah French.

Their initial expedition is filled with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. In the beginning, the dense forest seems harmless with its sun-dappled scenery that offers a serene, almost idyllic background for their project. However, it does not take long before they discover the reality of the tale and its horrific implications. the quiet beauty of the forest swiftly becomes hostile and dangerous, ultimately placing their lives at stake.

What sets Rootwood apart from other movies in the horror genre is its execution. The plot cleverly makes use of both modern technology and primitive fears of the unknown to create a distinctively spine-chilling atmosphere. The scenes unfold in a well-paced manner, using the eerie quiet and vast emptiness of the forest to craft suspense and tension. The movie effectively uses handheld cameras to manifest the perspective of William and Jessica, thereby immersing the audience into the chilling depth of the storyline. Moreover, the unpredictable nature of the forest and its inhabitants keeps audiences at the edge of their seats throughout.

The characters of William and Jessica, brought to life deftly by Gallant and Dowling, provide a strong, realistic emotional tether for the audience. Their initial nonchalance and excitement shift towards mounting dread and panic as they encounter the Wooden Devil, a transformation which Gallant and Dowling enact remarkably. Alongside the leads, Sarah French enacts the character of Erin with a captivating charm, maintaining an energetic presence that contrasts vibrantly with the darkening narrative.

Marcel Walz, the director, deserves commendation for his expertly-styled cinematography that enhances the suspenseful elements of this film. The slow burning build-up and the charismatic performances pair harmoniously with the disquieting atmosphere of the forest, adding an extra layer of unease and tension. The adept screenplay combined with insightful direction brings the frightful folklore to life in a gripping way.

In conclusion, Rootwood blends the old-world aura of legends with the modern-day hunger for suspense and mystery effortlessly. The haunting atmosphere, compelling performances, and a masterful narrative together create a thrilling and chilling cinematic experience. The movie is an adventure that traverses from curiosity to terror, teaching the grim lesson that some legends are better left untouched. It is an engaging watch for fans of the horror-thriller genre, leaving them pondering long after the end credits roll.