While people are getting sued left and right for illegally downloading films from BitTorrent, other filmmakers seek to use the massive platform to fit their needs. Enter The Tunnel, a horror film that was just released for free via the sharing platform and is currently being downloaded and watched by thousands of people.
This is the first release from BitTorrent’s Artist Spotlight Program, which seeks to distribute films worldwide through the company’s products. Is this the way of the future?
As for The Tunnel itself, here’s the trailer and official synopsis.
In 2007 the New South Wales government suddenly scrapped a plan to utilise the water in the disused underground train tunnels beneath Sydney. In 2008, chasing rumours of a government cover-up and urban legends surrounding the sudden backflip, investigative journalist Natasha Warner led a crew of four into the underground labyrinth. They went down into the tunnels looking for a story – until the story found them.
This is the film of their harrowing ordeal. With unprecedented access to the recently declassified tapes they shot in the claustrophobic subway tunnels, as well as a series of candid interviews with the survivors, we come face to face with the terrifying truth.
This never before seen footage takes us deep inside the tunnels bringing the darkness to life and capturing the raw fear that threatens to tear the crew apart, leaving each one of them fighting for their lives.
Yes, it’s yet another found footage film, but it’s free and you’re actually helping to support independent film.
The idea is that if you like the film you can donate a few bucks to them and help pay their cast and crew. Check out the film’s site here and get ready to fire up uTorrent.