"The Forest" (2016) is an American supernatural horror film directed by Jason Zada. The movie stars Natalie Dormer in a dual role and is set in the eerie and infamous Aokigahara Forest at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan, a location known for its historical association with suicide.
The plot follows Sara Price (Natalie Dormer), an American woman who travels to Japan in search of her twin sister, Jess (also played by Natalie Dormer), who has mysteriously disappeared. Jess was last seen entering the Aokigahara Forest, a place that Sara soon learns is steeped in dark folklore and tragedy. Determined to find her sister, Sara ventures into the forest despite numerous warnings about its malevolent nature.
Accompanied by Aiden (Taylor Kinney), an expatriate journalist, and a local guide named Michi (Yukiyoshi Ozawa), Sara's journey into the forest quickly turns into a terrifying ordeal. As she delves deeper into the woods, she encounters supernatural occurrences and is confronted by disturbing visions that blur the lines between reality and the paranormal. The forest itself becomes a character, manifesting the inner fears and unresolved traumas of those who enter it.
Key characters include Sara Price, whose determination and resilience drive the narrative as she searches for her sister amidst growing supernatural threats. Aiden, portrayed by Taylor Kinney, serves as a companion with his own mysterious motives, adding complexity to the story. Michi, played by Yukiyoshi Ozawa, offers cultural insight and a sense of foreboding, emphasizing the dangers of the forest.
Themes in "The Forest" revolve around grief, loss, and the psychological effects of trauma. The film explores the bond between twins, the impact of unresolved emotional pain, and the influence of cultural myths on perception and reality. The setting of Aokigahara Forest, known as the "Suicide Forest," amplifies the horror elements through its association with death and despair.
"The Forest" received mixed reviews from critics. While Natalie Dormer's performance and the atmospheric setting were praised, the film was critiqued for its reliance on horror clichés and predictable plot twists. Despite this, it remains a notable entry in the supernatural horror genre, offering a chilling exploration of a real-world location with a haunted reputation.