Willow Creek

Comedian-turned-filmmaker Bobcat Goldthwait's found-footage effort is an understated but often surprisingly effective horror movie about a couple who embark on a search for Sasquatch in the heavily-forested region of northern California where the elusive creature was once supposedly caught on celluloid. Affable leads Bryce Johnson and Alexie Gilmore give natural, unforced performances, while much of the story consists of interviews with local residents, who prove to be sometimes eccentric but are generally down-to-earth folk taking advantage of the attraction their woods now have for monster-hunting tourists. Goldthwait demonstrates considerable skill in building tension, particularly in a long static shot of the couple inside their tent listening with ever-increasing terror to ominous sounds that are getting closer and closer. Some viewers will of course be disappointed by a horror movie that depends on suggestion and indirection instead of serving up blood and gore. But those looking for something a little different may well appreciate this low-key effort. A strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)