I have got to say that this one caught me off guard. I was expecting the same old fan film bullshit - Jason tied to his machete, the same hocus-pocus "appear here and appear there", "Jason does not do this or that" that Kane Hodder FORCED into the franchise.
Don't Hike In the Snow is a sort of sequel-follow up to the YouTube hit fan film "Don't Hike Alone". And a very well done follow-up, I might day. Far better than NHA.
The opening scene is brilliantly shot. I have to admit that I rolled my eyes when I saw Jason and his trusty bullshit machete. But, FUCKING A, Jason used a bow & arrow and axe in the first kill. The axe is actually the weapon that he has used most throughout the entire franchise.
The story takes ex-deputy sheriff Rick Cologne (Vinny Guastaferro) and puts him as Sheriff of the territory and main game-caller for the investigation of the deaths in the area. With a history with Jason Voorhees he follows in the same "Jason doesn't exist" bullshit as his former Sheriff Rick Garris.
The film also uses the character of Tommy Jarvis, reprised by Thom Mathews (Return of the Living Dead 1,2 and Friday the 13th Part VI) as Tommy Jarvis and does a freaking great job. Not missing a beat from his role as Tommy from 1986.
The story line is solid, and the acting is production-company-quality. Running at 32 minutes, its quote short but entertaining as hell. A must see for any franchise fans. I have always said that the future of the franchise lies in these fan films, and this film is evident. Far better than Platinum Dunes, New Line and Paramount could ever create this far in the game.
And you guys know - this film has to be good to pull me out of 5+ years of hibernation.
I miss all of you guys.
