The Clearing

A storm that has been continuing to swell over Appalachia for 5 months with no sign of stopping. While journalist and her colleague are on route to continue ongoing interviews with survivors about strange psychological behavior following the storm, she inexplicably wakes up alone in an empty jeep, parked in a clearing, surrounded only by Appalachian wilderness. After realizing the car will not start, she makes the bold decision to find her way back to civilization on foot, despite being lost. With vivid recurring thoughts and visions of personal childhood trauma manifesting around her, she finds herself unable to leave the woods, instead mysteriously returning to the clearing.

Directed by Stephanie Trainer, The Clearing leans on a strong ensemble — Samantha Ainsworth, Christina Chickis, Tom Mirth — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2024.