A Horror Film That Doesn't Suck

Rating: 8/10 (18 October 2009)

I don't care for the horror genre. It's never really appealed to me, the movies tend to use cheap scare tactics, and they're often riddled with clichés. Maybe it's why I usually enjoy comedy horror like Shaun of the Dead and Zombieland; they're almost self-mocking, acknowledging what they are and spoofing the genre.
That's why I'm impressed by Paranormal Activity. It's a serious horror film, with a clear intent to frighten you, and it actually works. No clichés, no cheap scares, no excessive gore. Instead the film employs ambient crescendos that evoke dread and tension, minimal but effective effects, and realistic, sympathetic characters stuck in a hellish downward spiral.
The film was made for a meager $15,000, and it shows, but it might be better for it. Many have drawn a comparison between this and The Blair Witch Project, and while I haven't seen the latter, like its predecessor Paranormal Activity has at least turned out to be a major indie success story. And I'm glad, it deserves it.
8.5/10