Imagine being trapped in the depths of a forest, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of terror and the stench of death. Welcome to 'Pitfall', the latest low-budget horror film that's set to send chills down your spine with its blend of gory survival and supremely irritating characters. Director James Kondelik has crafted a cinematic experience that will leave you gasping for breath, but not necessarily in a good way.
The story follows Ashley (Alexandra Essoe) and Scott (Marshall Williams), siblings who return to the forest where their parents met a tragic end in a car accident. Joined by their partners, Charlie (Matt Hamilton) and Gwen (Jordan Claire Robbins), and Lars (Richard Harmon), they're on a mission to remember the past but end up facing their worst nightmares instead. Scott's outdoor expertise is put to the test when he falls into a spiked hunting pit, a fate worse than death, after fleeing from wolves. This sets off a chain reaction of gruesome events as the group faces off against a demonic hunter, played by former UFC fighter Randy Couture - and let's just say you won't be sleeping with the lights on afterwards.
Kondelik's script, co-written with Victor Rose, takes an unconventional approach to storytelling. The film jumps between multiple timelines, including an unrelated prologue featuring a mother and child, separate manhunts, and flashbacks to the parents' fatal accident. While this fragmented narrative can be jarring at times, it occasionally adds depth to the main storyline, like when Scott's memories are triggered by his dire situation.
But 'Pitfall' isn't just about gore; it delves into significant melodrama as well. Ashley's struggles with alcoholism, her strained relationship with Scott and Gwen, and a newly discovered pregnancy all take centre stage at some point, often right after graphic scenes of violence or gruesome injuries. It's like the filmmakers are trying to cram too much into one film - will it stick together, or will it fall apart under its own weight?
Despite the controversy surrounding its casting and handling, 'Pitfall' still manages to pack a punch with Randy Couture as the villain. As the group fights for survival amidst his brutal attacks, the stakes are raised higher than ever before. But will the film's attempt at uniting melodrama and extreme horror pay off, or will it leave viewers feeling like they've been left hanging? Only one thing is certain - 'Pitfall' is a wild ride that'll keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.