Blair Witch Producer Says Everybody’s Been Watching the Wrong Version of the Movie

Blair Witch Producer Says Everybody's Been Watching the Wrong Version of the Movie

As a seasoned gamer and a devoted horror movie aficionado with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the revelation about The Blair Witch Project has left me utterly astounded. For years, we’ve been watching this seminal work of found footage horror on our home screens, but it turns out we’ve been looking at a mere shadow of the original vision. Now, thanks to Second Sight Films and their new Region B Blu-ray pressing, I’m hopeful that one day, I’ll be able to witness the film as it was intended—on my region-free player (if Lionsgate ever decides to grant us our wishes).


For decades, “The Blair Witch Project” has been recognized as a pioneer in the horror genre, paving the way for modern-day found footage films. This indie movie is often hailed as a major player within its genre and has achieved classic status over the years. Interestingly enough, it appears we’ve been watching an alternate version of the film all this time. In a recent Twitter thread, “Blair Witch” producer Mike Monello explained that the version of the movie released in theaters and on home media isn’t the one the filmmakers originally intended to share. Instead, the release was due to technological constraints at the time.

1999 marked a time when theatrical films were not initially produced on video format, which meant there wasn’t a standard method for distributing them to videotape. Instead, they followed the traditional approach for all films at that time – the 35mm negative was transferred onto video. However, Monello clarified that the 35mm negative is NOT the original camera negative. Consequently, the version released for home video usage contained errors in colors, motion, and had rounded corners, giving it an appearance distinct from typical home videos and film.

As a movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that a new Blu-ray pressing by Second Sight Films in the UK allows for a true-to-intention viewing of the film. However, there’s a slight hitch – since it’s a Region B release, only players capable of playing Region B discs can enjoy this high-definition experience. So, if you reside or have a device that supports the UK region, get ready for an exceptional cinematic journey!

Limited Edition of “The Blair Witch Project” is set for release on November 11th. You can now pre-order it! This version features a new restoration using the original elements, including both the Theatrical and Festival cut, as well as numerous hours of additional bonus material. It comes with a hardcover book, Heather’s Journal, and more! A standard edition is also available for those who prefer it.

— Second Sight (@SecondSightFilm) August 23, 2024

“This is currently the initial and exclusive version of the movie that has been accurately converted for home video distribution. It now appears as it did during our editing process, exactly how we envisioned it. Had theaters been capable of projecting video in 1999, this transfer would have been screened cinematically! The 35mm print was a necessary compromise given the technology available at the time, according to Monello.”

As a dedicated fan, I concluded this discussion by expressing my apologies over the limited availability of the release to Region B only. I strongly urge fellow enthusiasts yearning for a region-free edition to voice their interest directly to Lionsgate, advocating for such a version.

He acknowledged that some people might be disappointed it’s only available in Region B. He wished it could be worldwide, but contractual obligations and legal matters stand in the way. However, there’s a possibility that this edition may become accessible in the US. The ultimate decision lies with @Lionsgate or @LionsgateHorror. If your player isn’t region-free, he advises reaching out to Lionsgate directly and requesting them to release this version of the film.

A new version of the movie “The Blair Witch Project” hasn’t been scheduled for release yet, but you can still rent or buy the original, famous found-footage film from almost any video platform available.

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2024-08-25 03:09