I am immensely happy to see something like this get made today

Rating: 8/10 (9 December 2009)

I do not believe in the supernatural. Not in the least. I watch films(or read stories) that have such elements in them only when I expect the piece of fiction to be well-done. That is the reason I gave this a chance... and I do not regret it for a second. As is always the case, this works the best if you do allow yourself to be convinced by it. Criticize it based upon its merits. There is no way for you to be unaware of what it's about... it's right there in the title. And I am thrilled to see this, such a recent movie, be done in this manner. The build-up is key. Atmosphere is carefully established and maintained, suspense gradually increases, and the minimalistic approach to the effects is perfect(think The Ring). I hope that the majority of audiences have not forgotten what horror is about, and what it can be. Violence, gore, torture... if the director possesses sufficient skill, none of those will be necessary. With a cast of half a dozen no-names(that can act rather well, and come off as quite natural), this manages to be scary and unsettling, proving just how little is required. The faux documentary style, currently being used for every cliché of the genre, is utilized well here, and things like the camera being put down and left still, the focus being slightly off or the light being a tad unflattering really help make it seem real. I suppose you could argue that the plot is simple. The storytelling is great, with some hints as to what goes on that we don't see(because it isn't recorded), and the delivery of exposition being smooth, not forced. There is humor in this, but it doesn't detract from the mood. The characters are credible and fleshed out. This is not for everyone. The ending is surprising without being one of those irritating out-of-nowhere ones that distract the viewer in an effort to make them forget the lesser parts of the picture. Editing and cinematography are excellent. The hand-held shots do not render you dizzy, and the way this uses sound is masterful. There is relatively infrequent strong language, a little blood and continuous disturbing content in this. I recommend this to anyone who can imagine themselves enjoying it from reading this review. 8/10