In a brand new feature on HorrorCultFilms, we look at the scenes that blow us away, moments that will live forever in our minds and in yours. Number 8 on the list, is the moment Heather has a mental breakdown before she embarks on her final meeting with that bitch in the woods. Hughesy explains:
Before Found Footage was used in nearly every horror release, The Blair Witch Project led the way in 1999 and nothing sums up more fear from a character than Heather’s (Heather Donahue) mental breakdown towards the end of the film.
In my original HCF Review of the very film, I mentioned in more detail in how powerful this scene is. Let’s not forget, the three campers were put through the mill by directors Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sanchez, starved and on the brink of exhaustion, the final time Heather looks into the camera is both acting and an actress, desperate tp get home.
A snippet from my original review.
“But while at its core the Blair Witch is all about the Supernatural, the main aspect which I feel a sadness for because its always overlooked is the theme of human breakdown! Here on screen we have three humans who become increasingly desperate to get out of these woods. Panic engulfs the soul and at times its heartbreaking to see! The image of Heather saying her goodbye is now an often target of spoof central, but its one of the greatest scenes in horror history. Here is an actual actress bearing her soul to the camera, all improvised and all from the heart!”
(Cuts to night, Heather looking into camera) (The confessional) Heather: I just want to apologize to Mike's mom and Josh's mom and my mom and I'm sorry to everyone. I was very naive. (Looks away from camera scared) I was very naive and very stupid and I shouldn't have put other people in danger for something that was all about me and my selfish motives. I'm so sorry for everything that has happened because in spite of what Mike says now it is my fault. Because it was my project and I insisted on everything. I insisted we weren't lost. I insisted we keep going. I insisted we walk south. Everything had to be my way and this is where we've ended up. And it's all because of me were here now hungry and cold and hunted. I love you mom and dad. I am so sorry. It was never my intention to hurt any one and I hope that's clear. (Begins to hyperventilate as mucus streams from her nostrils) I am so scared. What was that? I'm scared to close my eyes and I'm scared to open them. I'm going to die out here. Every night we just wait for them to come. (Breaks down and sobs) (Cuts ahead to Heather and gathering gear in the darkness to confront the cries of Josh out in the woods)
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