Hype Kills

Rating: 7/10 (2 November 2009)

After a few months of odd previews showing users' reactions from a night vision camera, and keeping this title under the wraps, I was intrigued by its upcoming. After it was 'demanded' in my city, the new trailers began to air, and I must say, it seemed interesting. After that, I began to hear how it was "The scariest movie of all time!", from several sources: Z100, BloodyDisgusting, AOL, Yahoo!, even my local news! I was pumped, it seemed awesome. I hadn't got around to seeing the movie until Halloween, which was near perfect timing, if not THE perfect time to see it. Went with two friends, and began to watch. After the film was done, I was left feeling like a donut: a huge, empty gap in the pit of my stomach. What happened to the "scariest movie of all time"? I mean, I will get onto my detailed section, but it was way over-hyped on the scare factor. Personally, floating bedsheets, loud noises, and a man thrown into a camera (all shown in the trailers), seemed to, well--bluntly: suck. Now, let me explain the movie more before I get to the point. The acting was real, I must admit, it did seem like this was real. From start to finish, the movie does authenticate itself into feeling real. The viral filming in a first-person view of the camera from either Micah or Katie, mostly Micah, was interesting, and reminded me of Copperfield, which I liked for a similar reason. The 'paranormal activity', no pun intended, was very interesting, but as I said: that's all it was. The bottom line was: this movie is great; a very good THRILLER. I personally don't classify it as a horror movie, simply because it doesn't scare the true fans of horror. Sure, it well scare the general population, and it did, a la the huge amount of hype. But please, let me expand on my comment. It is great, because the story is so rich and deep, and above all: 'real'. From the filming style, to the 'paranormal activity', and even to the characters genuine and believable acting, this film delivers. Not to the standards of "the scariest movie of all time", but it definitely is extremely interesting throughout, and will want you begging for more as the credits roll. But that has been answered; a sequel in 2012. And before I close, I do want to say: I hope this does not become a franchise of a different couple or person each and every movie, experiencing different things. I can look that up on YouTube or use my imagination. I personally think the sequel is unnecessary, but I do hope it clarifies certain things in the film.
THE BOTTOM LINE
(Pro's) Interesting throughout. A solid, B-list (always good to see) movie. Filming is done very well. Actors aren't acting; they are 'real people'.
(Con's) Over-hyped. NOT the scariest movie of all-time, I assure you this. Too short; really wanted to see more, but not in sequel form.
Overall: 6.8/10; 3/5; ****
The verdict? Go see "Paranormal Activity". If your city hasn't 'demanded it', then I recommend you better get to clicking!
~ Frankie
P.S. Hope you enjoyed my first-ever review, more to come with enhancements along the way! Happy Movie-Going! ^_^