Decided to give this a watch even after reading some not-so-great stuff about this low-brow indie effort. And I must admit that I am impressed.
The casual viewer will knit his confused brows and think "the folks have stumbled into a Bermuda Triangle of sorts inside the forest", try to look for coherent explanations throughout this slow-burner, and dismiss the ending as being incoherent and melodramatic.
But for someone who appreciates surreal films tinged with atmosphere and moody horror, this film is really, really good. Just remember, you are left with questions rather than answers when the end credits start to roll, and THAT is the hallmark of a good film - it makes you think and stays with you for awhile after it is over. A lot of stuff is implied and is left to the imagination, and if watched carefully, the ending provides the answers to the questions posed throughout the film. You will find solutions to everything - the eerie music, the path's destination, the human psyche, philosophy of life. And the most important one of them all - why the popcorn girl of the town's theater insisted on being a part of the group. The deaths are evenly spread out, and some are particularly jaw-dropping.
Another strong point of the film is the performance of it's actors. The lead pair do their bit but the supporting characters are strong and perform to their fullest potential. Some nice shots compliment the cinematography and the direction is to be commended as well. Bear in mind that this is an indie effort and so it does really well for what it is.
All in all, recommended for those who love surreal, moody films which make you intrigued. If you are thinking of some slashing kills, gore, nudity and explanations/reasons behind everything, best to stay away.
* * * ½