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The Tunnel is an Australian found footage feature directed by Carlo Ledesma that is presented as a full on completed documentary. It has various interviews tied in throughout, as well as taking footage from sources other than the protagonist’s cameras, such as closed circuit television shots at various locations.
The story follows that of reporter Natasha Warner (Bel Deliá), producer Peter Ferguson (Andy Rodoreda- Black Water), cameraman Steve Miller (Steve Davis), and sound man Jim “Tangles” Williams (Luke Arnold), as they explore the ancient, dilapidated tunnels that run beneath the surface of Sydney’s streets. This is due to the state’s governments initial idea of using these tunnels as a water recycle plant and ignoring the fact that there are reports of homeless people dwelling in this warren of underground alleyways, and more disturbing reports that they have been steadily disappearing.
A good portion of the film is dedicated the buildup of going down into the dark tunnels, but once down there, things quickly escalate and the tension and sense of gnawing dread is executed with cleverness and creativity.
The acting is very well done and the four main characters acquit themselves well with their decisions that, for the most part, feel like logical ones. Actions that a terrified, trapped group of explorers would take when faced with such unforeseen and horrifying events down in the depths of darkness.
The locations for The Tunnel were eerily fantastic and the sounds are another factor that helps to send shivers down your spine. As there is pitch black all around in these tunnels these creepy little sounds really help set the mood.
If you’re looking for blood or gore you will be disappointed but if you’re a fan of the ‘found footage’ genre and suspense, odds are that you’ll consider The Tunnel worthy of a watch.
WICKED RATING: 6/10 [usr 6]
Title: The Tunnel
Director(s): Carlo Ledesma
Writer(s): Enzo Tedeschi, Julian Harvey
Stars: Bel Delia, Andy Rodoreda, Steve Davis, Luke Arnold
Year: 2011
Studio/ Production Co: Distracted Media, Zapruder’s Other Films, Dlshs
Budget: $135,000 (estimated)
Language: English
Length: 90mins
Sub-Genre: Mystey, Thriller
