On the Trail of Bigfoot: The Discovery is the second in a documentary series in which writer-director Seth Breedlove scours the dense forests of North America to prove that Bigfoot exists. A mythological creature, Bigfoot has been the subject of fireside chats and hunting tales for centuries. Does the beast exist? Many people claim so, and those who study the scarce evidence have not given up. They believe that the possibility of Bigfoot roaming around the dense and unchartered forests of North America is real. Unfortunately, mainstream science does not approve of Bigfoot’s existence… yet.
For many who hunt, hike, or enjoy the woods to any capacity, there’s always a suspicion looming in the back of one’s mind about the giant, hairy biped. A bizarre sound, screech, strange footstep, or broken tree limbs that only a creature of great strength could have created is unsettling to hear or see. However, in Breedlove’s investigation, forest findings suggest that Bigfoot built nests found in the Capitol State Forest on the Olympic Peninsula in Grays Harbor located in northern Washington (the state). It is a well-known Bigfoot territory as legends of the beast, also known as Sasquatch, are renowned by many who have lived or currently live there. People also claim to have seen a Bigfoot and possible offspring as well. There are stories of Bigfoot massacres and many “almost” encounters. Some claim it is a massive white ape-like creature that lives in these forests.
In On the Trail of Bigfoot: The Discovery, Breedlove spends time with members of the Olympic Project, a research group dedicated to finding and recording Sasquatch evidence in the hopes of seeing one. Formed in 2016, the researchers operate and roam private property where they have uncovered evidence that they believe is the nesting environs of the creature and its family. The so-called nests don’t make sense, as they are constructed with purpose with woven huckleberry branches and other forest floor elements that reveal the use of opposable thumbs. If this is true, it would be the thumbs of a Great Ape or Bigfoot.
“…scours the dense forests of North America to prove that Bigfoot exists.”
The filmmaker does not leave any twig unturned in pursuing evidence. The Olympic Project members who are well studied and experienced in trekking also believe this is monumental evidence. What makes On the Trail of Bigfoot: The Discovery interesting is how Breedlove allows his footage to breathe. He presents enough angles and engaging conversation, interviews, and meaningful research to offer the belief that something is out there.
Breedlove carefully constructs a truth that is not quite quantified but also hard to ignore. An accomplishment from his powerful narration and the occasionally caricature graphics to offer a picture of folklore. He allows his subjects to speak their truths, leaving any bizarre commentary or questioning to the side. He follows the Olympic Project members as seriously as they believe in their discovery. Most see Bigfoot on tree lines, and the climate in this part of Washington is suitable with its rainfall and conditions, as great apes worldwide live in similar habitats.
However, the mystery at the heart of On the Trail of Bigfoot: The Discovery still looms, meaning researchers must constantly search the woods and question anyone with a story or memory. Is this a new type of Bigfoot approach to keep the legend alive? Or is there something living out there? With so many people moving further and further into the wilderness, is Bigfoot’s day of reckoning closer than we realize? If so, my money is on Seth Breedlove to be there to document.
"…allows his subjects to speak their truths..."
I believe! Looking forward to seeing this program.