The Forest: A Thrilling, If Predictable, Horror Ride
Initially a bit slow, “The Forest” picks up considerably in its second half, showcasing Natalie Dormer’s talent for portraying fear and director Jason Zada’s knack for jump scares with frightening faces and loud orchestral hits.
Sarah (Natalie Dormer) is the responsible twin, while Jess is the troubled one, constantly finding herself in precarious situations. Jess’s latest escapade might be her last. Sarah learns that her sister, who moved to Japan, has entered Aokigahara Forest, infamous as a suicide spot. With no news from Jess, and the local police giving up hope, Sarah feels her sister is alive and ventures into the cursed forest to find her.
Aokigahara Forest is a real place at the base of Mount Fuji, known for its natural anomalies due to extensive ore deposits and volcanic rock.
In an era of marketing hype, it’s refreshing to see a film that delivers exactly what it promises. A forest of ghosts? Check. The trailer shows Natalie Dormer wandering through the woods, encountering supernatural occurrences? Spot on. “The Forest” doesn’t deceive; Dormer spends the entire film lost in the woods, facing various spooky events.
-large-picture7.jpg “Still from “The Forest””)
While not filmed in Aokigahara, Natalie Dormer visited the forest, though she stayed within five meters of the tourist trail.
Minimalist Horror
“The Forest” is essentially just that: wanderings. There’s a lack of character development, psychological depth, and the plot is minimalist. We only learn that Sarah is responsible and Jess is prone to emotional outbursts due to childhood trauma. Other nuances are absent, leaving only the forest and ghosts, who aim to disorient lost travelers.
A Slow Start, But a Strong Finish
This approach restricts “The Forest,” making the first half somewhat dull. The exposition is drawn out, failing to create empathy or intrigue. The ending is predictable, though a few twists appear in the final act. However, the film transitions into a “honest” horror attraction, delivering tense scenes with jump scares. There’s no time to relax or get bored!
Natalie Dormer’s Performance
For Natalie Dormer, known for supporting roles in “The Tudors,” “Game of Thrones,” and “The Hunger Games,” “The Forest” is a chance to shine as a leading lady. While not a perfect performance, Dormer commands attention, proving her talent. The film relies on old-fashioned scares, but what else would you expect from a movie about a cursed forest and restless spirits?