The found footage subgenre of horror has charmd audiences with its unique blend of realism and terror. In this article, we will go into the world of found footage and explore the most frightening and immersive horror films that have successfully exploited this technique. We will examine the psychological and supernatural approaches that have made these films successful, and explore the ways in which they have utilized the found footage format to craft a sense of unease and fear in their viewers.
Butterfly Kisses (2018) is a standout example of a found footage film that eschews traditional horror tropes in favor of a more psychological approach. The film follows a struggling videographer who discovers a collection of VHS tapes in his in-laws’ basement, which he proceeds to edit together into a chronological narrative. As the footage progresses, it becomes clear that something is amiss, and the protagonist’s obsession with the tapes takes a darker turn. The film’s relative plausibility and realistic portrayal of obsessive behavior make it a chilling and unsettling watch.
The Blair Witch Project (1999) is another pioneering found footage film that revolutionized the subgenre. Shot on a shoestring budget, the film follows three film students who venture into the Maryland woods to investigate a local legend about a witch. Despite its low budget, the film’s clever use of sound and camera work creates a sense of unease and tension, and the film’s non-linear narrative structure keeps viewers guessing until the very end. The film’s lack of CGI and reliance on practical effects adds to its sense of realism, making it a truly terrifying watch.
Hell House LLC (2016) is a more recent found footage film that has garnered a cult following. The film follows a group of paranormal investigators who document their journey as they explore the infamous Hell House LLC attraction. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s slow-burning tension and sense of unease build towards a terrifying climax.
Paranormal Activity (2007) is another influential found footage film that has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs. The film follows a couple who documents their experiences with a supernatural entity in their home. The film’s use of static cameras and found footage creates a sense of realism, and the film’s slow-burning tension and sense of unease build towards a terrifying climax.
A Still From Paranormal Activity (Photo: Paranormal Activity)
V/H/S/94 (2021) is a more recent found footage film that has garnered critical acclaim. The film is an anthology horror film that features multiple shorts, each with its own unique style and tone. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s sense of unease and tension build towards a terrifying climax.
Noroi: The Curse (2005) is a Japanese found footage film that has garnered a cult following. The film follows a paranormal investigator who becomes aware of multiple paranormal occurrences that he believes are connected. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s sense of unease and tension build towards a terrifying climax.
Afflicted (2013) is a Canadian found footage film that tells the story of two friends who go on a vacation of a lifetime, only to discover that one of them has become a vampire. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s sense of unease and tension build towards a terrifying climax.
The Taking of Deborah Logan (2014) is a found footage film that explores the theme of Alzheimer’s disease and the supernatural. The film follows a group of students who document a documentary about a woman with Alzheimer’s, only to discover that she is experiencing paranormal occurrences. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s sense of unease and tension build towards a terrifying climax.
Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum (2018) is a South Korean found footage film that tells the story of a group of friends who explore an abandoned asylum. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s sense of unease and tension build towards a terrifying climax.
Incantation (2022) is a Taiwanese found footage film that tells the story of a woman who seeks to protect her daughter from a supernatural entity. The film’s use of found footage and real-world locations creates a sense of authenticity, and the film’s sense of unease and tension build towards a terrifying climax.
