twist of fait accomplis

Wendigo (see also; trailer), 2001 [ ADD ]
Director: Larry Fessenden
Availability: Medium (available this December on DVD from Artisan)

Larry Fessenden isn't exactly a mainstream name, but his trilogy based loosely on the classic Universal monsters is one of the more interesting developments in indie horror during the last 15 years. His first, No Telling in 1991, was an animal-rights/pro-organic farming horror movie (!) based loosely on Frankenstein, while his second, the highly respected Habit explored the modern vampire theme in a completely new way. Wendigo, released last year, is the last entry in the series, focusing (barely) on werewolves.

Erik Per Sullivan (Dewey from Malcolm in the Middle) stars in this story of haunted woods, murder, and quick-as-a-cockroach tree spirits. What makes this one so thoroughly tense and nail-biting are the frightening, believable situations set against such a gorgeous, if haunting, backdrop of the deep woods during the winter. There's a lot to like here, and if you've been jaded by weak major-studio attempts at horror, Wendigo is a breath of fresh air that will unsettle you and have you checking over your shoulder after watching. Fessenden does a great job of weaving a narrative, creating a mood, and bringing together the whole package in such a satisfying way.