Exist Review (Spoiler Free)
“Exists,” a film directed by Eduardo Sánchez, who is known for pioneering the found-footage genre with “The Blair Witch Project,” takes another stab at horror through the lens of a handheld camera. This time, the subject is the elusive Bigfoot, a creature that has fascinated and terrified in equal measure.
The movie follows a group of friends who venture into the remote woods of Texas for a weekend of fun, only to find themselves hunted by the legendary beast. The premise is familiar, and the film doesn’t shy away from the tropes of the genre. It’s a classic setup for a horror movie: isolated location, a group of young people, and an unknown threat lurking in the shadows.
The execution of “Exists” is a mixed bag. On one hand, the film has been praised for its suspenseful sequences and the palpable sense of dread it builds. Critics have noted that Sánchez manages to maintain tension throughout the movie, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The portrayal of Bigfoot is also a highlight, with the creature being depicted as both intelligent and terrifyingly powerful.
On the other hand, the film has faced criticism for its lack of originality and character development. The found-footage style, while effective in creating an immersive experience, has been called out for its overuse and the logical fallacies it often presents, such as questionable decisions on when to keep filming versus when to help a friend in danger.
The characters are seen as fitting too neatly into horror stereotypes, which detracts from the audience’s investment in their fate. The dialogue and humor have been described as lacking, leaving the film to rely heavily on its suspense and monster elements to carry the weight.
Despite these criticisms, “Exists” has its defenders. Some reviewers appreciate the film for what it is: a straightforward, suspenseful horror flick that delivers on the scares. The found-footage format, while not groundbreaking, provides a few genuinely creepy moments that fans of the genre will enjoy.
In conclusion, “Exists” may not be a revolutionary addition to the horror genre, but it offers enough thrills and chills for those looking for a quick scare. It’s a reminder that sometimes, in horror, the simplest stories can be the most effective, provided they are executed with skill and a commitment to the genre’s roots. Whether “Exists” will stand the test of time like Sánchez’s earlier work remains to be seen, but it certainly has left its mark on the found-footage horror landscape.
Exist vs Willow Creek Comparison
Exists and Willow Creek are both found-footage films about Bigfoot. I’ve already reviewed Willow Creek a while back, but I’d like to make a quick comparison between these two movies.
In Exists, you see what Bigfoot looks like midway through the film. However, in Willow Creek, they never really show Bigfoot; it’s left to your imagination.
I enjoy both movies, but Willow Creek is a far more superior and terrifying film. I appreciate that they don’t reveal Bigfoot and leave it to your imagination. I also like Willow Creek’s surprising ending. The acting is much better in Willow Creek, and it provides a bit of backstory for the main characters. I recommend watching both, but if I had to choose one, I’d pick Willow Creek.
In the Nutshell
“Willow Creek” is a much more entertaining movie, although “Exists” is not bad either. I give 3 out of 5 stars.
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Genre: Found-Footage Big Foot
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