An Interesting experiment, but failed in some aspects...

Rating: 3/10 (18 July 1999)

Perhaps it was the buildup that killed this movie for me. Since I work in the entertainment industry, I have many friends who have already been to see screenings of this film in various cities, and although reviews were mixed, there were actually several who defined it as "the scariest movie I have ever seen." When I went, I tried to keep my expectations low, so I wouldn't be disappointed, but it didn't work.
This film just didn't scare me. I was impressed with the concept, and the improvisation of the three young actors was, at times, more original and heart-felt than most of the acting I have seen lately in big-budget films. But despite this supernova of creativity, BWP never became more than an interesting experiment for me. The gaping holes and inconsistencies in the story made me think about things too much, and some of the improvisation and events were obviously "goal-oriented," and were too contrived to effectively mesh with the rest of the film's naturalistic methods. In all, there were many times where I had to say, "No way, someone in this situation wouldn't do that!" or even "What is that supposed to be? I don't get it."
Although I am glad I saw the movie, apparently I didn't share the same experience most of my fellow moviegoers did. It seemed to me like I had just sat through a two-hour campfire story, but one told by a novice storyteller. I found myself picking at the inconsistencies, and feeling let down. After several hours of buildup, I left the theater unfulfilled.
Again, I seem to be the only one that thought this. Most of my friends LOVED the film. Of course, most of them are idiots, so don't take their advice. See it on the matinee to really get your money's worth.