In the realm of filmmaking, horror and parody have long captivated audiences. The fusion of these genres often leads to unexpected and memorable cinematic experiences. ‘Strange Harvest’ exemplifies this blend, offering a fresh perspective on the true crime genre popularized by Netflix.
Exploring the Unique Blend of Horror and True Crime in ‘Strange Harvest’
Horror and parody have always enjoyed a strong following in the film industry. Surprisingly, these two genres merge exceptionally well, as evidenced by some of the most beloved films that cleverly combine elements of both.
While many filmmakers continue to revisit familiar found footage tropes or pay homage to the nostalgic films of their youth, it’s refreshing to see new voices in cinema experimenting with genre pastiche.
A highlight at Fantastic Fest last year, Strange Harvest is set to captivate audiences with its innovative take on the Netflix true crime style, merging genres to create a distinct horror experience. We had the opportunity to speak with filmmaker Stuart Ortiz about his vision for the project and how he approached this popular streaming genre.
Initial Inspiration for ‘Strange Harvest’
Stuart Ortiz: The initial inspiration came from the documentary Tiger King, which highlighted the mainstream appeal of true crime. I worried that audiences might not be familiar or engaged enough with the format to embark on this journey, but Tiger King revealed a significant appetite for this genre.
True crime offers a compelling way to tell genre stories, particularly horror. It allows for extensive world-building and exposition, enabling wild tangents that traditional narratives might not accommodate. The immediacy of found footage lends a sense of realism, making horror situations more effective. When mundane reality intersects with the uncanny, especially in a found footage context, the results can be profoundly unsettling.
Inspirations Behind the True Crime Documentary Style
Stuart Ortiz: There wasn’t a single documentary that we aimed to emulate. Instead, our style was shaped by a collective influence from various programs we’ve all encountered over the years. The best true crime documentaries share a certain rhythm and pacing. Amazon’s Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer stands out for its exceptional title sequence—I’m a fan of a well-crafted title sequence! My initial love for true crime came from the podcast Sword and Scale, which is particularly intense in its first season.
Technical Aspects of Filming
Stuart Ortiz: We shot the interviews using a Canon C300 Mark III paired with Sigma’s exceptional art lenses. This choice was influenced by its status as a “Netflix-approved camera” commonly used in such documentaries. A large format Arri Alexa would have been too cinematic. The C300 provided the ideal “professional interview look” and its reliable auto-focus made filming more efficient.
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Behind-the-Scenes Insights on Special Effects
Stuart Ortiz: The gruesome effects were crafted by the talented Josh Russell, known for his work on the cenobites in David Bruckner’s Hellraiser. Despite our limited budget, we allocated a significant portion to ensure high-quality effects. I believe there is an art to presenting dead bodies in films, and few filmmakers execute it well. Ari Aster’s work is a major inspiration for me. We meticulously arranged the death scenes, focusing on the details.
One memorable moment involved shooting a hanging body in a domestic outdoor setting. Despite having a permit, we couldn’t stop passersby, including children, from taking pictures, creating a surreal and humorous scene.
Future Plans for the ‘Strange Harvest’ Saga
Stuart Ortiz: I would love to continue this saga! I enjoy working in this format and have countless ideas for a cinematic universe filled with strange true crime stories. Ultimately, it depends on audience interest. Time will tell if this is a standalone project or the start of something larger!
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
Stuart Ortiz: My best advice is to be strategic in your approach. This style allows for low-budget films that feel expansive and polished. Much of the movie is crafted in post-production; I spent two years refining it—re-editing, re-photoshopping, and even adding new interviews that weren’t in the original script. A mock documentary is modular, allowing for easy adjustments without disrupting the overall flow.
Strange Harvest hits theaters on August 8, 2025.
