The Forest (2016) Movie Review
“The Forest,” directed by Jason Zada and released in 2016, is a supernatural horror film that delves into the eerie and unsettling Aokigahara Forest at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan. Known as the “Suicide Forest,” this real-life location sets the stage for a chilling exploration of grief, loss, and the unknown. While the film has garnered mixed reviews, it offers a haunting atmosphere and a unique setting that horror fans may find intriguing.
Plot Summary
The story follows Sara Price (Natalie Dormer), a young American woman who travels to Japan to search for her twin sister, Jess (also played by Dormer), who has mysteriously disappeared in Aokigahara Forest. Despite warnings about the forest’s dark reputation, Sara ventures into the dense woods with the help of a local guide, Michi (Yukiyoshi Ozawa), and a journalist, Aiden (Taylor Kinney).
As Sara delves deeper into the forest, she begins to experience strange and terrifying phenomena. The line between reality and hallucination blurs as she encounters malevolent spirits and confronts her own psychological demons. The forest itself seems to prey on Sara’s fears, leading to a suspenseful and unnerving climax.
Performances
Natalie Dormer delivers a compelling dual performance as Sara and Jess, capturing the emotional turmoil and determination of a woman desperate to find her sister. Dormer’s portrayal of Sara’s descent into fear and paranoia is both convincing and engaging. Taylor Kinney provides solid support as Aiden, while Yukiyoshi Ozawa’s portrayal of Michi adds an authentic touch to the film’s Japanese setting.
Direction and Writing
Jason Zada, in his directorial debut, creates a haunting and oppressive atmosphere that is central to the film’s tension. The screenplay, written by Nick Antosca, Sarah Cornwell, and Ben Ketai, weaves together elements of Japanese folklore with psychological horror. While the plot occasionally relies on familiar horror tropes, Zada’s direction keeps the audience invested through effective use of suspense and visual storytelling.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography by Mattias Troelstrup beautifully captures the haunting beauty and claustrophobic nature of Aokigahara Forest. The dense foliage, twisting trees, and pervasive darkness create an unsettling backdrop for the film’s events. The film’s visual style effectively conveys a sense of isolation and dread.
Bear McCreary’s musical score complements the film’s eerie tone, enhancing the sense of unease and tension. The music underscores key moments, amplifying the emotional and psychological impact of the story.
Themes
“The Forest” explores themes of grief, loss, and the supernatural. The film delves into the psychological effects of bereavement and the lengths to which people will go to find closure. It also touches on the cultural significance of Aokigahara Forest and its association with death and despair. The interplay between Sara’s personal trauma and the forest’s malevolent presence adds depth to the horror elements.
Streaming Services and Availability
As of 2024, “The Forest” is available for streaming on various platforms. In the United States, you can watch the film on:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
- Netflix: Available for streaming with a subscription.
These streaming options provide viewers with flexibility in choosing how and when to watch “The Forest.”
Conclusion
“The Forest” offers a chilling and atmospheric horror experience, anchored by Natalie Dormer’s strong performance and the eerie setting of Aokigahara Forest. While the film may not break new ground in the genre, it effectively uses its unique location and psychological themes to create a sense of unease and suspense.
For fans of supernatural horror and psychological thrillers, “The Forest” is worth a watch. Its exploration of grief and the unknown, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most infamous locations, makes for a compelling and haunting viewing experience. With its availability on popular streaming services, “The Forest” is easily accessible for those seeking a spine-tingling journey into the depths of fear and despair.
