‘Found Footage’ Takes Affectionate Look at Micro-Indie Filmmaking
It’s hard to believe “The Blair Witch Project” stormed Hollywood 26 years ago.
The indie film rode the early Internet wave and became one of the most profitable films in modern times. The movie fueled endless “found footage” copycats, allowing directors to bring their visions to the screen at an uber-low price point.
That’s what the lead character has in mind in “Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project.” The low-budget satire pokes gentle fun at wannabe Spielbergs, mining yuks from the indie film ranks.
It’s frothy and fun until supernatural events swamp the story.
Young, ambitious Chase Bradner (Brennan Keel Cook) wants to make a “found footage” Bigfoot movie, and he’ll do anything to make it happen. That means cutting every corner and engaging in some light subterfuge. The latter comes courtesy of his hard-nosed producer (Dean Cameron of “Summer School” and “Hollywood Palms” fame).
Chase, along with his girlfriend/Assistant Director Natalie (Erika Vetter), find a home in the woods where they can shoot their film.
Naturally, everything that can go wrong does. A major casting coup blows up in their faces. A donor’s bizarre request forces the crew to get creative at the last minute. And the house they’ve chosen to set up shop keeps making weird, ominous sounds.
Hmmm.
“Found Footage” works best as a loving homage to the never-say-die spirit of indie filmmakers. Yes, Chase is deluded about his project and, possibly, his abilities. That won’t stop him from getting the project started. His underlings know little about filmmaking, but their eagerness goes a very long way.
The story lacks belly laughs but the jokes are steady and infectious. Writer/director Max Tzannes has clearly spent time in the indie trenches and hasn’t been burned so badly that he can’t see the comical side to storytelling.
Maybe pre-order Found Footage: The Patterson Project today and count the days until June 24!
— deancameron (@deancameron) June 13, 2025
Cook anchors the film with his knack for twisting reality to his liking. His scenes with Vetter’s Natalie click because we’ve seen this couple before. Her budding frustration adds texture to the comedic trappings along with a compelling subplot involving a separate crew member.
Cameron plays his producer role as straight as an arrow, an ideal take given the silliness seen elsewhere.
We won’t spoil some of the gags but just know fans of the late, great Alan Rickman are in for an absurdist treat.
FAST FACT: “Found Footage” plays homage to “The Blair Witch Project” with its own faux news site.
“Found Footage” doesn’t overstay its welcome, but a tonal shift in the third act is both effective and a tad disappointing. We want more laughs, at least of the kind served up in the first hour. In their place, the story takes a turn that’s more chilling than expected.
Tzannes never extends the story’s gimmick beyond its humble roots. That leaves an indie film with heart, brains and a well-earned grin from start to finish.
HiT or Miss: “Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project” mocks the horror genre, indie filmmaking and anyone who refuses to quit on their dreams.
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