A Modern Horror Breakthrough

Rating: 8/10 (8 May 2010)

This movie is a welcome breath of fresh air to the modern horror genre. In the right setting, and the right state of mind, this movie has you on the edge of your seat. It makes a normal activity, such as going to bed, seem frightening.
I am a huge fan of documentary style filming, although in the past this style of filming and the element of horror has been questionable. The Blair Witch Project for example; over hyped and completely unnecessary.
Though in this case the realism that has been produced in this film is spine tingling. There are no added elements of music to heighten the mood; its the silence in Paranormal Activity that makes it such a success. Your almost afraid to breath too loudly, in case you miss out. The director should be awarded for not over-exaggerating the narrative. The 'hauntings' appear to happen quite naturally on the screen, which highlights the realistic nature of this film.
Based on a young couple; the horrifying fact is this could be anyone of us, and thats what was on the back of my mind whilst viewing the film. If you are a sceptic though and don't believe in spirits, demons or the paranormal world, then this is not the film for you. As a believer i embraced the 'hauntings' and the paranormal incidences that were happening right in front of my eyes.
One criticism i do have though, is that of one of the main protagonists Micah. He goes against everything that Katie asks him not to do, and if he had of listened to the Phychic in the first place and not tried to communicate with the demon, then maybe he would not of met such an untimely demise. On the other hand though, it would not of made such interesting viewing.
Its nice to see what affect a low budget film, with few cameras and actors can actually do. It is not reliant on big name actors, special effects, or over-exaggerated sound effects. The focus is purely what is happening on screen. Its raw, original and has you watching your back the way to bed.