A masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (2 November 2009)

I'm a huge fan of the horror genre and I'm the first to tell you, if there's a bad movie out, there's a solid chance it's a horror movie. Rarely do horror movies truly leave us frightened and disturbed like this one. Many people are skeptical of this movie's actual quality and credit it's popularity to the hype machine of the internet. While I could spend some time discussing that aspect, that's not what I'm here to do. This movie supersedes most horror films because it was crafted with a suspense that builds up as the movie progresses and because the performances are absolutely pitch perfect, particularly that of leading lady, newcomer Katie Featherston. (who is one of the most gorgeous actresses to pop up in recent years) It plays on the innate fear of what you can't see rather than trying to shock you with some sort of gruesome death sequence. If you have no belief in ghosts whatsoever, you may not find this venture to be so terrifying. Personally I have a very active imagination and loved every nerve fraying minute of it. It starts off a bit slow but only for the purpose of getting to know the characters. The boyfriend in this, portrayed by newcomer Micah Sloat, changes from a cocky skeptic to a man out to protect his woman from something he doesn't understand at all. He's not the most likable character ever portrayed but he is portrayed with the same definite realism as the rest of the movie. This movie is not one to be missed. It's frightening and while it doesn't bring anything new to the table, it uses established tricks and themes better than any film I've encountered. Paranormal Activity is an example of why I love movies and of what can be done with a little bit of talent and technical know how. Bravo to everyone involved in this gem of an exemplary indie horror film. Bravo!