1999, R, 80 minutes

Don't let the fact that The Blair Witch Project received a nation-wide release fool you, because this as independent as it gets. The footage is dark, scratchy, and amateurish, but of course this is done intentionally. This chilling film is more than unique, I would describe it as amazingly creative.

The opening shot of Blair Witch gives us the film's basic setup: "In October of 1994, three student filmmakers disappeared in the woods near Burkittesville, Maryland, while shooting a documentary. One year later, their footage was found." So what we are supposed to be watching is the recovered footage from these film students, which is presented in a fashion that seems so real that it caused some people to believe this whole thing actually took place (now that's convincing). As the threesome heads out into the woods, they are planning to shoot a documentary based on the myths of the Blair Witch. These alleged myths involve the disappearances of many children in the surrounding area, and the trio soon discovers that it may actually be true.

The rough quality of this film is so incredibly convincing that I'm not surprised it fooled a few people. There are long sequences where the screen is covered with nothing but darkness, but it only adds to the feeling. As you watch, you connect with the characters because it seems so real. I found myself sharing many of their emotions as they become lost -- the most significant being their fear. The most successful aspect of The Blair Witch Project is its ability to effectively use the imagination of the audience. We don't always see what's causing the characters to be frightened, but we can definitely hear it and feel it.

The no-name cast was excellent. The characters were convincing and easy to connect with, and I was surprised when I found myself truly hoping for their safety. It was definitely a wise decision for the actors to use their real names on screen, which only made them seem more real. The moments of human reaction and fright were some of the most memorable I've ever seen.

The Blair Witch Project is the type of film that people will either love or loathe. The realistic fashion in which the events unfold will certainly bore moviegoers who tend to enjoy nothing other than clean-cut studio films, but fans of independent films will probably eat it up. As I said before, it's scratchy, dark, and actually looks like a home video. If that sort of thing won't bother you (it's all part of the effect) then I strongly recommend it.