Basic Information About the Film

Preservation is a 2014 American horror-thriller film directed and written by Christopher Denham. The movie delivers a tense, suspenseful experience set in a remote wilderness. It stars Wrenn Schmidt as Wit, Pablo Schreiber as Sean, and Aaron Staton as Mike. With a runtime of 90 minutes, Preservation has a 5.0/10 rating on IMDb but leaves a lasting impression due to its unique storyline and eerie, oppressive atmosphere.

Plot Summary

Preservation follows a hunting trip involving three main characters: Wit, a veterinarian struggling with marital issues; Sean, her ex-military husband; and Mike, Sean’s arrogant businessman brother. They head to a secluded forest for a weekend getaway, hoping to reconnect and mend personal conflicts. However, their trip turns into a nightmare when their gear is stolen overnight, and they discover they’re being hunted by a mysterious group of masked, ruthless strangers wielding deadly weapons.

What begins as a relaxing hunting trip becomes a brutal fight for survival. The trio faces not only the merciless hunters but also their own internal conflicts and survival instincts. The film gradually unveils dark secrets, taking viewers on a psychological journey where the line between human and predator blurs.

Highlights of the Film

1. Eerie Atmosphere and Authentic Setting

The forest setting in Preservation is one of the film’s greatest strengths. Filmed in a real forest, the vast, desolate, and ominous landscape creates a suffocating atmosphere, amplifying the characters’ isolation and danger. Natural sounds like rustling leaves, chirping birds, or eerie silence at night heighten the tension.

2. Deep Exploration of Character Psychology

Preservation goes beyond a typical horror film by delving into the characters’ psyches. Wit, with her intelligence and determination, emerges as the group’s reluctant leader, while Sean and Mike reveal their vulnerabilities under pressure. The strained relationships among the three are tested by fear, mistrust, and life-or-death decisions. Wit, in particular, is portrayed as a strong, multidimensional character, challenging stereotypes about women in horror films.

3. Mysterious Antagonists

The film’s antagonists are a standout feature. The masked hunters have no dialogue or clear identities, appearing only with emotionless masks and brutal actions. Their enigmatic nature keeps viewers guessing about their motives, creating a constant sense of unease. Certain scenes use close-up shots and dim lighting to enhance their chilling presence.

4. Themes of Survival Instincts

Preservation is more than a horror story; it poses questions about human nature in life-threatening situations. How different are humans from animals when pushed to the brink? The film weaves this theme into the narrative through morally complex choices, from sacrificing others to save oneself to fighting to protect loved ones.

Acting and Filmmaking Techniques

Acting

• Wrenn Schmidt (Wit): Wrenn Schmidt delivers an impressive performance as Wit, portraying a character who is both resilient and vulnerable. She masterfully captures Wit’s transformation from a woman grappling with personal struggles to a fighter adapting to survive.
• Pablo Schreiber (Sean): Pablo Schreiber adds depth to Sean, particularly in moments that highlight the conflict between his military instincts and family ties.
• Aaron Staton (Mike): Aaron Staton’s Mike is both irritating and pitiable, with his smug demeanor giving way to fragility under pressure.

Filmmaking Techniques

Director Christopher Denham employs dynamic camera work, from wide shots showcasing the forest’s vastness to tight close-ups during intense chase scenes. Sound design is used effectively to build suspense, with sudden silences amplifying the dread before dangerous moments. However, some viewers may find the pacing slow in the first act, as it focuses on establishing the characters’ relationships.

Overall Evaluation

Preservation is not a flawless horror film. Its slow pacing in the early scenes and a few unresolved plot points may leave some viewers wanting more. However, it succeeds in delivering a tense, thrilling experience with a thought-provoking message about survival and human relationships. It’s a must-watch for fans of psychological horror, especially those who enjoy films centered on internal struggles and survival in harsh conditions.

Conclusion

Preservation (2014) is a compelling horror film with a straightforward yet captivating story, blending psychological depth with heart-pounding action. If you’re looking for a movie that delivers suspense and prompts reflection on human nature, Preservation won’t disappoint. Prepare to step into a mysterious and dangerous forest for an unforgettable experience!