When it comes to Australian cinema, it’s no secret that we’ve all seen films that are just another found footage movie. Thankfully, some films were quite successful, memorable, and different from the rest. One of them was a mockumentary, The Tunnel, which was released in 2011. But this wasn’t just a horror movie, nor was it just another handheld camera feature. It’s a film that many movie lovers continue to talk about years after its making. Not only that, there are still many theories about certain plot points and character outcomes. But how did this film come to be, and why is it still such a powerful film that many will remember? The prime focus of this documentary celebrates how The Tunnel managed to become so successful and shares some great details and insights along the way.
The Tunnel: The Other Side of Darkness is a documentary that takes fans back in time by going behind the scenes, showing on-set footage, interviews from the past and present, and so much more. The Tunnel changed history when it was released simultaneously in cinemas, home entertainment, and for free via torrent networks (yes, you read that correctly). A decade later, The Tunnel (2011) has been seen by over 25 million people!
Taking different paths and taking on bigger risks than any other normal filmmaker in 2011, the creators of this well-known horror mockumentary decided to do things that many would call a disruption. The filmmakers didn’t just make a film: they took big risks and chances when it came to trying to obtain the budget, filming location and eventually, distribution in Australia.
The pacing of this documentary is excellent, and it is quite fast and snappy, meaning I was never bored. The interviews give great insight into the mockumentary’s making, but they are also quite encouraging and deliver an entertaining story. Visually, I was pleased with this feature as it’s obvious all interviews have been done with high-res cameras. The documentary also contains older footage that has never been shown before, which added to my engagement right from the start. In the end, as a lover of all things relating to film, I found this feature to be fascinating and fun.
Overall, this documentary takes a look back at the groundbreaking horror film which featured back in 2011. It’s a wonderful documentary that is filled with great insights and details that I never knew before. The documentary reveals the big risks, budget, experiments, and distribution for the mockumentary, The Tunnel. The pacing of this feature is excellent, and I enjoyed this feature as a man who loves all things relating to films. Those hoping to work with or make an Australian film one day will most certainly find this documentary inspiring and encouraging.
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