It’s onerous to consider “The Blair Witch Mission” stormed Hollywood 26 years in the past.
The indie movie rode the early Web wave and have become one of many most worthwhile movies in fashionable occasions. The film fueled infinite “discovered footage” copycats, permitting administrators to carry their visions to the display at an uber-low value level.
That’s what the lead character has in thoughts in “Discovered Footage: The Making of the Patterson Mission.” The low-budget satire pokes light enjoyable at wannabe Spielbergs, mining yuks from the indie movie ranks.
It’s frothy and enjoyable till supernatural occasions swamp the story.
Younger, bold Chase Bradner (Brennan Keel Cook dinner) desires to make a “discovered footage” Bigfoot film, and he’ll do something to make it occur. Which means slicing each nook and fascinating in some gentle subterfuge. The latter comes courtesy of his hard-nosed producer (Dean Cameron of “Summer season College” and “Hollywood Palms” fame).
Chase, alongside along with his girlfriend/Assistant Director Natalie (Erika Vetter), discover a dwelling within the woods the place they will shoot their movie.
Naturally, every little thing that may go incorrect does. A serious casting coup blows up of their faces. A donor’s weird request forces the crew to get inventive on the final minute. And the home they’ve chosen to arrange store retains making bizarre, ominous sounds.
Hmmm.
“Discovered Footage” works greatest as a loving homage to the never-say-die spirit of indie filmmakers. Sure, Chase is deluded about his mission and, probably, his skills. That received’t cease him from getting the mission began. His underlings know little about filmmaking, however their eagerness goes a really great distance.
The story lacks stomach laughs however the jokes are regular and infectious. Author/director Max Tzannes has clearly frolicked within the indie trenches and hasn’t been burned so badly that he can’t see the comical facet to storytelling.
Possibly pre-order Discovered Footage: The Patterson Mission as we speak and depend the times till June 24!
— deancameron (@deancameron) June 13, 2025
Cook dinner anchors the movie along with his knack for twisting actuality to his liking. His scenes with Vetter’s Natalie click on as a result of we’ve seen this couple earlier than. Her budding frustration provides texture to the comedic trappings together with a compelling subplot involving a separate crew member.
Cameron performs his producer position as straight as an arrow, a great take given the silliness seen elsewhere.
We received’t spoil among the gags however simply know followers of the late, nice Alan Rickman are in for an absurdist deal with.
FAST FACT: “Discovered Footage” performs homage to “The Blair Witch Mission” with its personal fake information web site.
“Discovered Footage” doesn’t overstay its welcome, however a tonal shift within the third act is each efficient and a tad disappointing. We wish extra laughs, not less than of the sort served up within the first hour. Of their place, the story takes a flip that’s extra chilling than anticipated.
Tzannes by no means extends the story’s gimmick past its humble roots. That leaves an indie movie with coronary heart, brains and a well-earned grin from begin to end.
HiT or Miss: “Discovered Footage: The Making of the Patterson Mission” mocks the horror style, indie filmmaking and anybody who refuses to stop on their goals.