Horror Movie Review: Feet of Death (2024)

Don’t be surprised if a common statement about Feet of Death goes along the lines of – well, that was better than expected. It’s not meant to come across a slur on the film, or on what writer/director James Chick has created here. No, it’s a common statement because Feet of Death is a Bigfoot horror film and the track record of these types of horror films is sketchy to say the least.

It’s why, come the end credits, the general response is likely to be one of surprise. Feet of Death isn’t just an ok Bigfoot film, it’s a good Bigfoot film, with some excellent moments and some not so excellent moments.

Eric Berger stars as Chris, who (stop me if you’ve heard this one before) is a popular vlogger who is going to investigate reports of missing hikers, murders, and animal attacks in the forest that surrounds Mount St. Helens. It’s Bigfoot country, and Chris is all about the views, of course. It’s a tale as old as time, as far as found-footage horror goes, and the most notable part of this opening is the stunning location.

Hold your ground though, as Feet of Death is not actually a found footage film and Chris is not the main character. In a surprising move, the character is killed off early on and focus instead turns to forest ranger and animal expert Jason (Andrew Jacob Brown) who is called in to work with Sheriff Ken (Jack Vanover) in investigating who or what killed the vlogger.

As far Sheriff Ken is concerned, it was an animal attack, but Jason isn’t so sure. Mainly because this latest killing follows a trend of unusual killings, one of which was his wife. An interesting twist to the story, especially as Jason is still extremely tender about his loss and quick to flair up when it’s suggested it might be affecting his work.

Which it is, of course, but he just can’t let it go, especially when proof seems to come that suggest they are dealing with Bigfoot. The hunt is on, but who actually is the hunter?

There are many more twists and turns to come, and thankfully, each helps keep the viewer engaged with the overall narrative. Just as the film has begun to slow down, start to drag its heels, and lean towards being a bit duller, something happens to pull attention right back on what is happening. This is important, because Feet of Death is a long film, and doesn’t always find ways to excite.

Putting it simply, if you’re after something energetic and horror-laden, you’re going to struggle here. Instead, Feet of Death goes a more talky and dramatic route, which does often create some of the best scenes. The cast are excellent throughout, and there are many moments that deliver memorability. Such as Jason and his friend Al (Tim Blough) talking about loss and grief, or how Sheriff Ken handles the burgeoning mystery and Jason’s obsession.

It’s the dramatic moments that often make Feet of Death special, even if Jason’s relationship with his wife lacks exploration. It would have been nice to have seen a flashback or two showing happier times. This would have given even more weight to his grief and made his behaviour at times more sympathetic. When you consider the film is over 100 minutes long, there’s no real excuse not to have stuff like this in there. Especially when you contrast the amount of dialogue that repeats.

Which is Feet of Death’s biggest problem. It’s too long, has pacing that is up and down, and doesn’t deliver enough horror-laden thrills overall. It’s still a very enjoyable film, and there are bloody moments, but it needed tightening up.

How about Bigfoot though? Is the creature actually in the film? You’ll have to check it out to find out, but rest assured, the approach taken here is fresh and fun. Which is the overriding memory that Feet of Death leaves you with. A good Bigfoot horror film. So it can be done.