In 1999, the Blair Witch Project terrified audiences around the world. Its claim to be genuine “found footage” led many to believe that what happened to the three students in the Black Hills Forest was real.  In 2016, the sequel, Blair Witch, attempts to scare audiences in the same way as the original, only this time with more high-tech gadgets. The film’s premise is that James, along with some friends, venture into the Black Hills Forest in search of his sister Heather (who disappeared in the first Blair Witch). What ensues is a series of strange events, some of which are very similar to the first film: hanging wooden stick figures, a derelict house etc.

While most horror films scare the living daylights out of me, this one surprisingly didn’t – it relied too much on the formula of the first one to propel its fear factor. The film’s faux documentary style is certainly not as effective as it once was because it has been overused in recent years (due to some films such as paranormal activity). The plot is also weak and at times ridiculous. While the first film effectively played on our fear of the unknown, the sequel dispels much of the mystery surrounding the Blair Witch. The scariest bit about the film was probably the deafening sound effects.

I recommend this film if you don’t like scary films – the horror is so diluted that you won’t have to worry about sleepless nights (unless you’re considering going camping).