Hunting Matthew Nichols is a 2024 Canadian horror thriller film directed by Marcian Tarasiuk from a screenplay by Sean Harris Oliver and Marcian Tarasiuk. The film is set to be released in the United States on April 10, 2026.
Hunting Matthew Nichols is a Canadian film combining elements of horror, mystery, thriller and documentary style "„found footage mockumentary, written, directed and starring Markian Tarasiuk. It is his directorial debut, which has appeared at film festivals such as the Newport Beach Film Festival and the Whistler Film Festival and has attracted interest with its unusual combination of documentary narrative and plot mystery.
Twenty-three years after the mysterious disappearance of young Matthew Nichols and his friend Jordan Raymer during an adventure in the woods, Matthew's sister, Tara Nichols, is left to her own devices and investigates the case. She is a documentary filmmaker who assembles her team to gather new evidence, analyze old footage, and uncover what really happened that fateful day.
Gradually, the investigation uncovers disturbing clues and clues from home-made VHS tapes that show strange events and an interest in local legends. As the investigation progresses, Tara begins to suspect that not only is her brother's disappearance unexplained, but he may still be alive—leading her to rethink all the "facts" that have led her to this point.
The film uses the atmosphere of an open-ended podcast or documentary as a framework, with a mixture of „talking heads,“ investigative footage, and personal moments, which creates tension and a constant sense that the truth lies somewhere between reality and the shadows.
Merkian Tarasiuk approaches Hunting Matthew Nichols with a vision that combines a documentary feel with a horror atmosphere. The film was shot in dark, damp and disturbing locations that emphasize the uncertainty and tension of the story — especially in the forested areas and desolate terrains characteristic of North Vancouver Island.
The camera is often used in a „found footage“ manner—hand-held editing, natural lighting, and realistic scenes that enhance the sense of candor and exploration of the mystery. This makes the film more engaging and directly connects the viewer to the emotions of the characters.
The director builds a gradual escalation of tension through carefully planned shots and small but significant revelations that keep the viewer constantly anticipating the next twist.
The actors in Hunting Matthew Nichols contribute to the authenticity and documentary feel of the film:
Markian Tarasiuk — plays the role of himself, as a director and part of the team that follows the investigation of the disappearance, bringing a realistic and candid presence.
Miranda McDougall is Tara Nichols, a highly emotional and determined central character whose quest to find the truth drives the story.
Christine Wills adds depth as Pam Hamilton, a community member who shares some of the past and memory of the missing youth.
Ryan Alexander McDonald appears as himself, contributing to the documentary nature of the plot.
The remaining actors in smaller roles contribute to realism and expand the community context of the narrative, which adds layers to the mystery.
Hunting Matthew Nichols is an unusual but powerful mix of documentary, mystery, and psychological horror. The film doesn't try to shock with cheap effects, but rather builds its suspense through personal trauma, family drama, and the search for a truth that may never be discovered.
It is especially interesting for fans of found footage genre, lovers of true crime stories, and those who appreciate a slower but intriguing montage that devotes time to building atmosphere and emotional engagement.
