The Jersey Devil is a legendary creature said to inhabit the Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey in the United States. Stories of the Jersey Devil date back to the 18th century, depicting it as a winged biped with hooves. Over time, the lore surrounding the creature has inspired a range of media, including films, which delve into its myth or use it as a backdrop for horror and thriller stories. Here, we focus on films that have taken inspiration from this enigmatic legend.
“The Barrens”, 2011
Director: Darren Lynn Bousman
This horror film delves into the legend of the Jersey Devil, focusing on a family camping trip in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. The father, played by Stephen Moyer, becomes increasingly unstable, obsessed with the idea that they are being stalked by the legendary creature, leading to a terrifying and psychological twist on the folklore.
Starring: Stephen Moyer, Mia Kirshner, Allie MacDonald, Shawn Ashmore, Peter DaCunha, David Keeley, Erik Knudsen, Shamier Anderson, Max Topplin, Michael Copeman;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: horror, thriller;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 94 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 4,6;
“The Last Broadcast”, 1998
Director: Stefan Avalos, Lance Weiler
As one of the earliest examples of a found footage film, “The Last Broadcast” predates the more famous “Blair Witch Project” and is centered around the story of a television crew's investigation into the Jersey Devil. Their journey into the Pine Barrens in search of the creature leads to mysterious and deadly consequences, blending the documentary style with supernatural horror.
Starring: David Beard, Jim Seward, Stefan Avalos, Lance Weiler, Rein Clabbers, Michele Pulaski, Tom Brunt, Mark Rublee, A.D. Roso, Dale Worstall, Vann K. Weller, Sam Wells, Jay MacDonald, Faith Weiler, Marianne Connor, Robert Weiler, Jennifer Nasal, Brett Nielsen, Holly Madison, Jeremy Coleman, Todd Weiler, Chadd Ritenbaugh;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: horror, detective;
Duration: 86 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,2;
More information about the film “The Last Broadcast” on the website imdb.com
These films represent a sampling of how the legend of the Jersey Devil has been interpreted and reimagined through the lens of cinema, ranging from psychological horror to murder mysteries, each bringing a unique perspective to the enduring folklore.
In conclusion, films about the Jersey Devil manage to encapsulate the chilling essence of one of America's most enduring legends. From the deep, shadowy realms of the Pine Barrens to the screen, these movies blend folklore, horror, and intrigue, captivating audiences with stories of the mythical creature that has haunted New Jersey lore for centuries. They not only serve to entertain but also to preserve a piece of regional mythology, introducing it to new generations and ensuring that the legend of the Jersey Devil continues to stir curiosity and fear. These films, with their varying interpretations and unique narratives, contribute significantly to the cultural tapestry of American folklore, demonstrating the power of storytelling in keeping myths alive in the collective consciousness. Through their creative endeavors, filmmakers offer a bridge between the past and the present, inviting viewers to explore the shadows of the unknown with a mix of fear, fascination, and awe.
