A teen takes a job as a scare actor at a haunted forest attraction. After bonding with his eccentric coworkers, a tragic death forces him to reconsider his dark interests.
“The Haunted Forest” is an independent film, and having been involved in indie filmmaking since I was twelve, I’ve always relished the chance to support other creators—especially given the energy within the independent film community. The trailer piqued my interest, and I went in hoping the movie would live up to its early promise. While the concept is intriguing, the actors are skilled, and the visuals are top-notch, the movie never quite capitalizes on these strengths. Despite having all the hallmarks of a great horror film, the various elements never fully come together, and the story ultimately buckles under the weight of its own aspirations.
The plot centers on Zach (Grayson Gwaze), a teenager who scores an ideal gig working as a scare actor at his cousin Mark’s (Cedric Gegel) haunted forest attraction. What starts as an exciting job quickly turns dark after a crew member turns up dead. As Halloween approaches and attendance at the park surges, more deaths occur. Zach is compelled to dig into the disturbing legends surrounding the land, which is rumored to have witnessed a massacre of Native Americans many years ago. Locals whisper that vengeful spirits now haunt the area.
Zach’s search for answers leads him to Sarah (Kaitlyn Lunardi), a colleague who is involved with a group that performs rituals to placate the spirits. As the fatalities mount, it becomes clear that Sarah and her group are concealing important truths. With help from his friend Carly (Meghan Reed), Zach launches an investigation that soon grows more perilous than either of them expected.
The film’s biggest shortcoming is its inability to manage audience anticipation. Throughout the movie, viewers are led to expect a dramatic showdown with supernatural forces, particularly given the emphasis on the angry spirits. Yet when the climax finally arrives, the resolution is both obvious and lacking in creativity. Without revealing too much, it’s enough to say that the film relies on tired horror clichés, leaving the audience disappointed after being led to expect a more inventive ending.
On the technical front, the film impresses. The acting is strong across the board, and Aitor Mendilibar’s cinematography captures the real Markoff’s Haunted Forest in Dickerson, Maryland, with haunting beauty, avoiding the tired shaky-camera effect that plagues many horror movies. The eerie atmosphere of the setting is put to good use.
Keith Boynton wears several hats as writer, director, and actor—a commendable accomplishment. Although he displays talent in each role, the script’s failure to provide a rewarding conclusion undermines the entire project. Attempts to inject humor or romance during tense moments dilute the suspense, making it hard to feel truly anxious about the characters’ safety. Even in scenes where Zach and Carly are running for their lives, the mood is repeatedly undercut by overly casual banter.
To sum up, “The Haunted Forest” is a feast for the eyes and features a capable cast, but it doesn’t live up to its early promise. While the film boasts a compelling set-up and impressive technical work, its weak finale leaves it as just another forgettable entry in the horror genre.
Available on Digital & VOD Friday, February 13th
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