The Poughkeepsie Tapes

The Poughkeepsie Tapes is a 2007 American horror film that takes on the style of a pseudo-documentary. The film was written, directed, and edited by John Erick Dowdle, who developed the story with his brother, Drew Dowdle. The narrative focuses on the chilling activities of a serial killer in Poughkeepsie, New York, showcased through interviews and footage from the killer's disturbing videotapes.

The film made its debut at the Tribeca Film Festival in May 2007 but faced numerous challenges during its release. Initially set for a theatrical launch in February 2008, the film was removed from the schedule. It later saw a brief release on video-on-demand in 2014, but it remained unavailable for home media until its DVD and Blu-ray release on 10 October 2017 by Shout! Factory.

In the film, police uncover over 800 tapes created by serial killer Edward Carver. These tapes document his heinous acts, including abductions and mutilations. Carver cleverly avoids being caught on camera, leading law enforcement on a hunt for both him and his victims. The tapes reveal shocking scenes, including the abduction of an eight-year-old girl and a gruesome C-section performed on one of his victims.

As the story unfolds, we follow the tragic fate of teenager Cheryl Dempsey, who becomes one of Carver's victims. After enduring unspeakable horrors, she is eventually rescued but remains deeply traumatized. The documentary explores the psychological aftermath of her ordeal, culminating in her tragic suicide just weeks later. A tape is discovered in her grave, leading investigators to question the whereabouts of Carver, who ominously seems to be watching from the shadows.

The film has received mixed reviews. Critics have noted its unsettling nature, praising its ability to evoke discomfort and fear, while others have critiqued it for lacking depth in exploring the killer's motivations. On Rotten Tomatoes, it has an approval rating of 50%, reflecting varied audience reactions. Some outlets have hailed it as one of the best indie films of 2007, highlighting its disturbing and unnerving content.

Notable cast members include Stacy Chbosky as Cheryl Dempsey and Ben Messmer as Edward Carver. Other actors include Ivar Brogger, Lou George, and Michael Lawson, among others.

For those intrigued by true crime and horror, The Poughkeepsie Tapes serves as an unsettling journey into the mind of a killer and the impact of his actions on both his victims and society.