MOVIES BY THE SLICE — “Sasquatch Sunset” showcases raw and guttural performances

Published 12:02 am Friday, April 26, 2024

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The new Bigfoot film, “Sasquatch Sunset,” made its debut this past weekend in select theaters across the nation.

Penned by David Zellner and helmed by him and his brother, Nathan, the movie features only four actors: Jesse Eisenberg, Riley Keough, Christophe Zajac-Denek and Nathan Zellner.

Together, they portray a Sasquatch family residing in the mountainous forests of northern California. The film offers a glimpse into the lives of this Sasquatch clan over the course of a year, divided into four distinct chapters: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.

Patrick Bennett

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What sets this film apart is its unconventional approach: there are no human characters or additional actors, and no dialogue — just grunts, whoops and guttural sounds.

While I found the film intriguing, I must note it is raw, explicit and not suited for everyone.

“Sasquatch Sunset” delves into the natural behaviors of wild animals, showcasing scenes of animalistic intimacy, bodily functions, childbirth, hunting and more. Some audiences in theaters and film festivals have reportedly been repulsed, walking out in disgust.

Despite the lack of dialogue, all four actors deliver exceptional performances, relying on their physicality and expressions to convey emotions. The costumes are remarkably realistic, seamlessly blending with the actors’ faces and eyes to create convincing creatures.

One thing I didn’t like was the inclusion of genitalia on the costumes. It was cringeworthy, but I understood the choice of the directors. The cinematography is amazing, capturing the beauty of the mountains and forests across the seasons with impeccable shot compositions and lighting.

The film’s music and sound effects are also praiseworthy, enhancing the overall experience. While I enjoyed the movie and found it to be a worthwhile experience, I acknowledge it may not resonate with everyone.

I expect some will be offended, grossed out or bored. Viewer discretion is advised, as “Sasquatch Sunset” is likely to polarize audiences.

On a personal rating scale of 1-10, I would give this film a 6.5. If you decide to watch it, I’d be interested to hear your thoughts.

To reach Patrick Bennett, email bennettvision@gmail.com.