I can now confidently say that the 'found footage' genre of filmmaking has run its course. I questioned that statement last year when The Last Exorcism was released, as it crafted a film that actually worked with the genre. However, since then, nothing has succeeded in using the gimmick that helped The Blair Witch Project reach unbelievable heights of popularity back in 1999. The Troll Hunter, the latest in the typical genre, fails to ignite much interest as its walks its way along a prototyped course of events, leading to an unsatisfying ending that will have even the genre's most dedicated followers scratching their heads in both confusion and disbelief.
The film tells of three university students who wander into the woods to make a documentary about illegal bear poaching. As one can easily conclude, the trio soon finds themselves in way over their heads as they come upon a man, Hans, who has been working for the government to protect the general public from the horrific terrors that lurk within the thick woods. These terrors are none other than trolls.
I will credit director Andre Ovredal for his impressive use of CGI as the trolls are often shown in full scale from unique and cleverly placed angles as our three students attempt to unearth the truth about the secret oppression.
But sadly, that is as good as the film gets. The rest is a montage of useless side stories, which showcase a team that lacks any real emotion or any real understanding of their subject. There are a few moments of comedic relief that give the film a bolt of energy; however, when the ending comes and you see how this found footage came to be 'found', you will demand that someone give you back the last hour and forty-eight minutes of your time.
