Backwoods horror films featuring isolated locations, cannibalistic or deformed antagonists, and unsuspecting travelers struggling for survival constitute a distinct subgenre. These films often emphasize graphic violence, suspense, and the vulnerability of individuals venturing into unfamiliar territory, much like the 2003 film featuring a group of friends encountering murderous mountain dwellers in West Virginia.
This specific type of horror film taps into primal fears of the unknown and the dangers lurking outside of civilization. The subgenre’s popularity arguably stems from its ability to deliver visceral thrills and explore themes of societal breakdown, isolation, and the consequences of venturing into the fringes. From the deliverance of the 1970s to more recent iterations, these narratives continue to resonate with audiences fascinated by survival scenarios and the darker side of human nature.