Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Documenting the Witch Path (2017)

Three filmmakers decide to make a movie about Witch Lake, where women accused of witchcraft were put to death in the 1600s.  The group plan to follow the Witch Path, which was marked by the town as a historical attraction, but then closed after four tours.

When Carl calls the town office to ask about permission to go there, they advise him not to go, but say he may want to talk to the tour guide. While the guide takes Carl’s call, he isn’t forthcoming and often refers Carl back to the town office for answers. The guide also says they shouldn’t go to the lake, and hangs up when Carl asks him if there was any paranormal activity seen on the tours.

The three discuss their uneasiness at pursuing this documentary.  They are convinced something happened out there since everyone says to stay away. Also they are stuck on the tour guide hanging up in response to the question about the supernatural, rather than laughing or denying it.

When Nathaniel drops out due to his unease, Robin considers doing the same, but doesn’t feel right letting Carl go on his own.  So the two head off to find Witch Lake and follow the Witch Path. Their trip is unsettling and the first night they hear noises and Robin thinks he sees something moving across the lake.

While this is mostly shot POV, it’s not a found footage movie since no one disappears. There are shots of Carl and Robin from afar which takes you out of the moment as you wonder who shot the footage.  Also occasionally scenes have ominous background music to set the tone.  Again, all of sudden you realize you’re watching POV but there’s music.

I spent the movie wondering what they would find or if something would happen to them, even though I knew they made it back.  The end was unexpected and may annoy some viewers. I thought it was interesting. Ultimately it’s a study in how easy it is to manipulate people.


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