Experience the Thrills of *825 Forest Road*: A Deep Dive into the Latest Horror Film by Stephen Cognetti
After a profound family tragedy, two estranged siblings embark on a journey to mend their strained relationship—but they unknowingly choose the wrong place for a fresh start. In 825 Forest Road, the latest narrative film from renowned found-footage director Stephen Cognetti (*Hell House LLC*), the siblings move into a vintage home that’s astonishingly low in price, located in a small town shrouded in dark, chilling secrets.
We had the opportunity to chat with Cognetti about his narrative film debut, which follows four successful *Hell House LLC* films (with a fifth installment on the horizon). *825 Forest Road* premieres on Shudder this Friday.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
From Found-Footage to Narrative: Stephen Cognetti’s Shift in Filmmaking
Cheryl Eddy, io9: Fans recognize you from your work on *Hell House LLC*, but this marks your entry into narrative filmmaking. What inspired your format change for this project?
Stephen Cognetti: While I believe that found-footage served its purpose for *Hell House*, 825 Forest Road is a narrative story, which allowed me to explore exciting storytelling techniques like a nonlinear timeline and segmented chapters. My training in traditional filmmaking influenced this shift. Though I love the found-footage genre, embracing a narrative approach offered a refreshing change.
Creating Suspense: A Different Approach to Horror
io9: Every horror filmmaker aims to frighten their audience. What distinguishes your narrative approach from your found-footage films?
Cognetti: Absolutely, creating fear is my primary goal. Much like *Hell House*, this film follows a slow-burn approach. It starts with a noteworthy scare, then weaves subtle, unsettling moments throughout the storyline. I aimed to portray the relatable feeling of being new to a town, where everything feels foreign and slightly off, building tension gradually.
The Dark Allure of Folklore in *825 Forest Road*
io9: Both *Hell House* films and 825 Forest Road feature a haunted house, eerie objects, and tragic pasts influencing present events. What draws you to these themes?
Cognetti: Objects that feel out of place introduce a unique creepiness to storytelling. Additionally, I am fascinated by small-town folklore. Every town boasts its own legends, often beyond the realm of possibility. What if one of those legends were true? This led to the compelling backstory of our film, where moving to a small town reveals its ghostly past, impacting the characters in unexpected ways.
Exploring Different Perspectives in Storytelling
io9: Your movie employs chapters that shift between characters’ viewpoints. Why did you implement this narrative structure?
Cognetti: I enjoy nonlinear storytelling; it adds depth and intrigue. Given that haunted house narratives are quite common in horror, I wanted to present a fresh take, intertwining seemingly separate films into one cohesive story. This layered approach allows viewers to discover hidden connections and clues across perspectives, enhancing their viewing experience.
Incorporating Livestream Elements into Traditional Narrative
io9: Though not a found-footage film, *825 Forest Road* features a livestream scene. What prompted you to include this element?
Cognetti: While it may seem like a nod to my found-footage origins, it organically fit the story and character dynamics. Crafting scare moments that evolve through different drafts meant exploring various angles until I found the perfect fit for that scene.
Teasing the Upcoming *Hell House LLC* Installment
io9: Can you share any insights about *Hell House LLC: Lineage*? Is it a prequel?
Cognetti: It’s not a prequel but features connections to past events, blending time periods. I’m excited about moving away from found-footage techniques, as I want to keep the series fresh. This fifth installment promises to be compelling and unique. Look out for it in August!
Is This the End of the *Hell House* Legacy?
io9: Will this be the last film in the *Hell House* series?
Cognetti: I believe it will be the final one I’ll be involved in. While this film doesn’t tie up every storyline, there remains potential for further exploration in the universe created.
825 Forest Road is available on Shudder starting April 4.
Looking for more updates? Stay tuned for the latest news on Marvel, Star Wars, and everything related to the future of Doctor Who!
Frequently Asked Questions about *825 Forest Road*
What is *825 Forest Road* about?
*825 Forest Road* follows two estranged siblings who, after a family tragedy, move into a low-priced house in a small town. They soon discover dark secrets that challenge their relationship and sanity.
Who directed *825 Forest Road*?
The film is directed by Stephen Cognetti, known for his work on the *Hell House LLC* series.
When will *825 Forest Road* be available for streaming?
Viewers can catch *825 Forest Road* on Shudder starting April 4.
Is *825 Forest Road* a found-footage film?
No, while Cognetti has a background in found-footage horror, *825 Forest Road* is a traditional narrative film.
What themes are explored in *825 Forest Road*?
The film delves into themes of estranged relationships, the effects of tragic pasts, and small-town folklore, intertwining horror with personal struggles.