About.com Rating

The Bottom Line

A solid, straightforward remake of an under-exposed film.



Pros

• Good cast
• Atmospheric
• Intelligent script

Cons

• Slow pace
• Perhaps too slavishly similar to the original

Description

• Starring James Caviezel, Claudia Karvan
• Directed by Jamie Blanks
• Rated R
• DVD Release Date: August 4, 2009

Guide Review - 'Nature's Grave' DVD Review

Nature's Grave is a straightforward remake of the little-known 1978 Australian movie Long Weekend, but the little that it adds to the original -- basically, production value and star power -- might be enough to draw attention to one of the more unique and intriguing horror movie stories.

In a last-ditch effort to save their marriage, squabbling couple Peter and Carla decide to head to the beach for a weekend camping getaway. Initially, it's not clear what the source of the tension is, but it becomes clear that both of them have contributed to the disintegration of the relationship with their own selfish acts.

Their selfishness isn't confined to the marriage, however. During the trip, they thoughtlessly mess with Mother Nature. Peter runs over a kangaroo, drops a cigarette that ignites a brush fire, litters, cuts down a tree and brings guns to do some hunting. And HE'S the nature lover. Although Carla doesn't commit as many transgressions, she loathes the outdoors and smashes an eagle egg in frustration.

Subtly, nature starts to react. At first, the incidents seem incidental -- ants invade their camp, an eagle attacks to protect its egg -- but the wildlife grows more ominous, and a mystical presence permeates the woods. Eventually, it drives them mad enough to leave, but will nature let them go?

Australian horror stalwarts Jamie Blanks and Everett De Roche team up for a second time -- following Storm Warning -- to direct and write this remake, which utilizes gorgeous Aussie scenery to heighten the impact. Like the original, the pace is slow, relying on an atmosphere of dread rather than overt acts of horror -- something that won't necessarily jibe with gore hounds. But those who relish intelligent, symbolic fare with something to say -- albeit a bit ambiguous -- Nature's Grave might fit the bill.

The DVD

No special features.

Movie: B-
DVD: F