The Patterson-Gimlin Film

On October 20, 1967, Roger Patterson and Bob Gimlin filmed what they claimed was a female Bigfoot walking along Bluff Creek in northern California. The approximately 59-second film has been analyzed for decades and remains the most famous and controversial piece of Bigfoot evidence in existence.

The Filmmakers

The two men were Roger Patterson (1926-1972) and Bob Gimlin (born 1931), both from Yakima, Washington. They were searching for Bigfoot and had a 16mm camera ready.

The Encounter

At Bluff Creek, their horses spooked. They saw a large, hairy creature. Patterson ran toward it, filming. The creature walked away and turned to look at them.

The Film

The footage shows a large, bipedal creature walking upright, covered in dark hair, with female characteristics visible, approximately 6-7 feet tall.

”Patty”

The creature, nicknamed “Patty,” walks with unusual gait, has apparent breasts, shows muscle movement, turns to look at camera. Frame 352 is most famous.

Film Analysis

Experts have examined body proportions, walking gait, muscle movement under fur, arm length, and movement patterns.

Arguments for Authenticity

Proponents note muscle rippling visible, proportions unlike human, gait analysis suggests non-human. It was difficult to fake in 1967, and Gimlin maintains truth.

Arguments Against

Skeptics argue it could be man in suit. Some claim knowledge of hoax. Patterson had financial motive. Costume maker claims involvement. Various confessions are disputed.

Bob Gimlin’s Position

The surviving witness never wavered on account. He says it was real creature. He did not profit initially. No confession from him. He is considered credible by many.

Roger Patterson

Patterson died in 1972 of cancer. He never admitted hoax and maintained encounter was real. He did profit from film and left controversy behind.

Scientific Interest

The film has been studied by anthropologists, biomechanics experts, Hollywood special effects artists, and forensic analysts. Conclusions vary.

Significance

The Patterson-Gimlin film is significant as the most analyzed Bigfoot evidence with ongoing scientific debate. It has cultural icon status, is neither proven nor disproven, and defines Bigfoot imagery.

Legacy

The Patterson-Gimlin film defines what most people imagine when they think of Bigfoot. Whether genuine footage of an unknown primate or an elaborate hoax, it remains the gold standard of cryptid evidence, inspiring both believers and skeptics for over five decades.