
Movie spotlight
Evil in Clear River
Lindsay Wagner stars as Kate, a mother who learns that her son's teacher, Pete Suvak (Randy Quaid) -- who's also the mayor of their small town -- has been telling his students that the Holocaust didn't exist and that Jews are mounting a worldwide conspiracy. When Kate takes action to have Suvak removed from the school, she's shocked to find that the entire town is behind him. Karen Arthur directs this drama based on a true story.
Insights
Plot Summary
A group of teenagers ventures into a secluded forest rumored to be cursed, seeking thrills and adventure. However, their playful exploration soon turns into a desperate fight for survival as they become the targets of a mysterious and malevolent force lurking within the woods. As paranoia sets in and they begin to pick each other off, the true nature of the evil haunting Clear River begins to reveal itself.
Critical Reception
Evil in Clear River, a low-budget independent horror film, received a mixed to negative reception upon its release, primarily finding an audience on the home video market. Critics often pointed to its derivative plot and often amateurish execution, while some acknowledged its atmospheric tension and earnest attempt at creating a suspenseful horror narrative. It has since gained a cult following among fans of 1980s direct-to-video horror.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its creepy atmosphere and suspenseful build-up in certain scenes.
Criticized for its predictable plot and underdeveloped characters.
Noted for its effective use of practical effects typical of 80s horror.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce due to the film's niche appeal, but those available often highlight its nostalgic value for fans of 80s low-budget horror, with some appreciating its attempt at creating a genuinely scary experience despite its limitations.
Fun Fact
Despite its title, the film was not shot in or around a location named Clear River, but rather filmed in and around the Pine Barrens region of Southern New Jersey.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources