Many viewers look at independent films with skeptical, weary eyes. Too often are these films used as gore fests or overly convoluted high-society imagery without a consistent plot. Though, from time to time, there are a few decent films that grab audiences' attention. The independent films that truly inspire either through their visual appeal or through depth in their scripts can make a director into the next big thing.
It can also, condemn them to movie making purgatory. Something in the Woods is a fictional thriller about a family being stalked by a Sasquatch that has gained the attention of audiences around the world. Making it one of those independent films that appeal to mainstream audiences.
Michael Hall Promoted Movie At Paranormal Fests
When it comes to producers promoting their horror films, they usually reach out to various science fiction conventions or maybe even Comic-Con if it fits the bill but not Michael Hall. An avid believer in Bigfoot and the paranormal, Hall, who produced and starred in Something In The Woods went straight to paranormal believers as a guest speaker at the Texas Paranormal United Fest based in Glen Rose, Texas.
He promoted his film at the event, encouraging believers in the hairy up-right beast to help in his crusade to spread awareness of the creature's existence.
Cryptozoologists Promoted The Film
Producer and actor Michael Hall wasn't the only one promoting his film. In fact, he had many cryptozoologists that were helping to bring attention to his film. Many of these cryptozoologists have grown tired of seeing cheaply made films depicting Bigfoot and other creatures cryptozoologists believe exist, in a less than flattering light.
So, when many found out that Michael Hall's film was well written with quality acting involved, they jumped on board, spreading the message that this was one of the few gems that can be found in the Bigfoot movie genre.
Something In The Woods Is A Territorial Dispute
Turns out, Michael Hall's movie Something in the Woods isn't about a wild beast who randomly goes around killing beautiful, scantily clad college students. No, his movie is about a rare territorial dispute between Bigfoot and a family that is encroaching on his territory.
Since the Bigfoot doesn't exactly have a legal claim to the land, he has to resort to trying to scare the family away by any means necessary. An act, he is almost successful in completing. So, for those watching the film, don't go in thinking this will be like Harry and the Hendersons.
The Film Was Inspired By Legends And Movies Of Bigfoot
Occasionally, fans will come across a paranormal movie that is supposedly based on a real event that involved a real-life family or person that recalls how the events took place. That isn't the case in this film, as producer Michael Hall, created a unique story that wasn't based on eye-witness accounts.
Instead, he claims his film was inspired by the 1972 movie The Legend of Boggy Creek and, also, by various legends depicting an ape-like creature that roams the woods of North America. It is through these sources he found his inspiration.
The Film Depicts Methods Used By Real Bigfoot Researchers
For those familiar with Destination America's Killing Bigfoot, actual Bigfoot researchers use a series of methods when tracking, calling and examining possible Sasquatch related structures found in the woods. Some of these methods include but are not limited to howls and wood knocks.
Producer Michael Hall went out of his way to incorporate these methods into his film to bring a sense of realism to the actual investigation scenes that took place during particular parts of filming. Hall wanted his film to be seen from a documentary standpoint, one that encapsulated actual Sasquatch research techniques.
The Producer Is A Skeptical Believer
While directors of films might be passionate about the project, they are currently envisioning and creating, that doesn't always mean they are passionate about the issue. Sadly, many directors are just looking for what bit of monetary gain or fame they can squeeze out of any project.
That can't be said for Something In The Woods producer Michael Hall, who, while somewhat skeptical about the idea of Bigfoot, is open to the idea of the creature's existence. His examination of the facts presented to him by researchers in the field gave him a sense that this creature does exist.
The Movie Was Filmed At A Small Texas Cafe
For fans wanting their horror films to involve a little bit of a nice, small-town feel, then Something in the Woods might just fit what they're looking for. Independent films usually don't have the luxury of an unlimited budget like most Hollywood projects, so they have to learn to be a little creative when it comes to their budget, along with where and how they film each scene.
Luckily, they had the perfect place in mind, setting up filming in the town of Jefferson, Texas at a small-town diner called Kitt's Cornbread Sandwich and Bar.
The Town They Filmed In Is A Popular Supernatural Destination
For those unfamiliar with Jefferson, Texas, it is a town in East Texas of little more than 2,000 residents. For those who enjoy paranormal activities, it is a town worth exploring. Considered to be one of the most haunted places in the United States, various buildings within Jefferson are supposedly roaming grounds for ghosts that come out during the witching hour scaring believers and skeptics alike.
The town and the surrounding area is also known to be a hot spot for Bigfoot sightings. It also where Bigfoot researchers congregate during the annual Texas Bigfoot Conference.
Positive Audience Rating On Rotten Tomatoes
Getting a positive rating by movie review sites is important to any film, no matter if it is an independent project or a blockbuster Hollywood film. In this modern era, catchy commercials or billboards just aren't enough to attract moviegoers to theaters anymore.
Instead, before seeing certain films, fans usually rely on a site like Rotten Tomatoes to give them an idea if it is a movie worth seeing. With over 30 audience reviews, Something in the Woods has received an overall 85% audience score, with many positive audience comments imploring others to see the film.
Angela Harger Voiced A DC Character
So, what does the popular MMO DC Universe Online have in common with an independent film about Bigfoot, well that would be Angela Harger who is a main protagonist in Something in the Woods.
Over the years, Harger has done some voice over work for various commercials but it was when she was chosen to do the voice of the comic book anti-hero The Question that she really gained her first big break in the entertainment industry. So, when she isn't fighting Bigfoot's on her front porch in movies, she is busy fighting crime in various comic book locations.