Paranormal Activity
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: September 25, 2009
5.9
USER SCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 702 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
377
Mixed:
138
Negative:
187
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
9
ChrisCOct 20, 2009
Admittedly the first parts of the movie were kinda boring. But I can't help but feel it was purposely boring to lower expectations to increase the shock value. Brilliantly made movie, the ending is one that still haunts me even days Admittedly the first parts of the movie were kinda boring. But I can't help but feel it was purposely boring to lower expectations to increase the shock value. Brilliantly made movie, the ending is one that still haunts me even days later and is probably the most terrifying scene in a horror movie I've ever seen. Honestly I can't stand when people act tough and say this movie didn't scare them. Stop kidding yourself. It was probably the best horror movie I've ever seen. And Mike R.....you paid $20 for a ticket????… Expand
5 of 5 users found this helpful
10
KyleHJan 4, 2010
If you think Saw is the greatest horror series of our decade, this movie isn't for you. If you think a horror movie has to have blood, gore, and in your face action then this movie isn't for you. If you think Inglorious Bastards If you think Saw is the greatest horror series of our decade, this movie isn't for you. If you think a horror movie has to have blood, gore, and in your face action then this movie isn't for you. If you think Inglorious Bastards was nothing but boring dialog, then this movie is not for you. If you enjoy movies that are based on building suspense then you will love this movie. If you're tired of all the crappy remakes that are plaguing the horror genre (Friday the 13th, The Stepfather, Halloween, etc.) then you will find this movie refreshing.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful
8
JBJan 28, 2010
Anyone calling themselves a horror fan that doesn't recognize the genius of this has no clue. This is a landmark film in the genre, and genres need a huge kick in the pants every now and then to keep them fresh. Deserves to be mentioned Anyone calling themselves a horror fan that doesn't recognize the genius of this has no clue. This is a landmark film in the genre, and genres need a huge kick in the pants every now and then to keep them fresh. Deserves to be mentioned with the likes of Night of the Living Dead, Halloween, Ringu, and Blair Witch.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful
9
St.TerryW.Jan 3, 2010
I was skeptical at first. But this movie is not that bad if you let yourself get into it. Its not a perfect movie but it is fun. Thats what i really enjoyed about it. This movie had lots of atmosphere, and i had been missing that from most I was skeptical at first. But this movie is not that bad if you let yourself get into it. Its not a perfect movie but it is fun. Thats what i really enjoyed about it. This movie had lots of atmosphere, and i had been missing that from most "horror" movies these days. i really enjoyed this and it scared my fiance so now she reacts to any noise at all at night time. When a movie can get into someones head, i consider it very well done. Congratulations to the people who put this together, and I congratulate the actors for doing an excellent job.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
DanielW.Nov 20, 2009
A fine line separates good horror movies from the ones that merely manipulate our visceral reactions to things that go bump in the night. Things go bump in the night in this movie, alright, but the movie builds slowly and spends a lot of A fine line separates good horror movies from the ones that merely manipulate our visceral reactions to things that go bump in the night. Things go bump in the night in this movie, alright, but the movie builds slowly and spends a lot of time lingering on the couple's believable shifting emotions as they try to figure out what to do by day, only to return to bed at night. Some of the night scenes are truly unnerving precisely because they do not deliver the jolts that we have been trained to expect from other superficially similar films. Ultimately, the movie does sort of revert to type, and I could have done without the final shot. But the audience I saw this movie with suffered deliciously, and I was still shaking from it hours later. Peli will have more than $15000 to work with next time he shoots a film. Let's hope the creativity that his low budget elicited from him this time around is not shot to hell by more money, and by the formulaic expectations that come with it.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
TreyW.Oct 17, 2009
This movie was really scary, The people who say otherwise are whining because either they were mad because it wasn't filled with special effects or the camera point of view. It had a sense of realistic perspective to it which made it This movie was really scary, The people who say otherwise are whining because either they were mad because it wasn't filled with special effects or the camera point of view. It had a sense of realistic perspective to it which made it even scarier, everyone in the theater yelled/screamed at one point or another during the movie and Kevin F. Cloverfield was a amazing movie by the way one of the best movies ever. If you do not like the camera view or are expecting a lot of S. Effects than do not bother seeing the movie but if you want to be genuinely scared than this movie is for you. It is way way way better than the Blair witch for everyone who is comparing it to that. Anyways, I will never regret buying a ticket to this movie. It had me scared of my own house.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
RickK.Oct 19, 2009
I kept hearing it was a very scary movie from my friends and others who had seen it, so hype wasn't a factor. I have to say this isn't a scary movie. If you get chills from watching Ghost Hunters or Scariest Places on Earth, then I kept hearing it was a very scary movie from my friends and others who had seen it, so hype wasn't a factor. I have to say this isn't a scary movie. If you get chills from watching Ghost Hunters or Scariest Places on Earth, then you might enjoy this movie more than others. I do enjoy watching shows about paranormal activity, so this movie was fun to watch, but it was not in any way scary. I'm not going to give it a low score because it was overhyped, I'm going to give it an average score because that is what it was, an average movie.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
MarkCOct 26, 2009
This movie depends on your mindset going in. I realized I was heading into a extremely low-budget mocumentary that has benifitted from a lot of hype recently. If you walk into this movie expecting to see a multi-million dollar blockbuster This movie depends on your mindset going in. I realized I was heading into a extremely low-budget mocumentary that has benifitted from a lot of hype recently. If you walk into this movie expecting to see a multi-million dollar blockbuster horror flick then you are going to leave disappointed. For the amount of money and the talent they had available I enjoyed what I saw. Yes, it was not a two-hour special effects extravaganza, but if you walked in there expecting one then you should have saved your money. To all the bad reviewers -- I'll give you $15000 and seven days to film a movie in your house and then we can see what you come up with. If you see this movie for what it was.. I for one think they did an excellent job.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
MarkDDec 7, 2009
I can see why this movie would divide opinion. It's not a typical in your face Hollywood horror. No, less is more is what this is about. It's subtle and it plays on your childhood fears of the dark, noises in the night ect. I can see why this movie would divide opinion. It's not a typical in your face Hollywood horror. No, less is more is what this is about. It's subtle and it plays on your childhood fears of the dark, noises in the night ect. It's a slow burner too so those without any patience or imagination will obviously wonder what all the fuss is about for the first 3/4 hour or so. But those who get it will see the pacing and subtly as the films greatest strengths. So give Paranormal Activity a chance. Yes, you might hate it and it almost certainly won't get to you straight away. It didn't scare me at first but it was a film that i thought about long after i left the cinema, especially when i was in bed alone!… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
BernardSOct 9, 2009
Agree with Andrew B. One of the scariest movies I've seen in a long time. Better than anything Blair Witch related.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
SFraserJan 1, 2010
I'm a male in my 30's and i've no doubt seen hundreds of horror movies in my life. When I was little I was scared of every type of horror movie (Halloween, Friday 13th etc) but being older I don't find anything scary..at I'm a male in my 30's and i've no doubt seen hundreds of horror movies in my life. When I was little I was scared of every type of horror movie (Halloween, Friday 13th etc) but being older I don't find anything scary..at all. Nowadays have a different experience watching horrors, I find them enjoyable and just entertaining. When the movies over I move on but...Cheers in a huge way to the makers of this movie to actually get under my skin for the first time in over 10 years! I WAS actually scared and creeped out by this movie! I thought it had some excellent acting and good building in suspence and I loved the look of the camera work! The makers of this movie should be really proud of themselves and this great achievement, and they should read all these negative reviews on here because it seems like they are all written by the same person...one-noted people with little or no imagination...and rating this a 0 and 1..I mean, grow up people don't be stupid.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
KeithT.Jan 8, 2010
My daughter could not watch the ending.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JohnOct 11, 2009
Loved it. Super scary. To respond to Justin M, I am also an Atheist and found it extremely scary. The film does not include anything that would be considered "religious". When they attempt to describe Demons, the only thing they really say Loved it. Super scary. To respond to Justin M, I am also an Atheist and found it extremely scary. The film does not include anything that would be considered "religious". When they attempt to describe Demons, the only thing they really say is that they are "not human". Being religious or not really has no impact on your like or dislike for the film.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JGOct 11, 2009
The movie is predictable but you still are waiting at the edge of your seat for the next thing to happen. Let's just say the entire theatre was silent when the movie ended scared to move.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
ChuckG.Oct 10, 2009
This is possibly the SCARIEST movie I have ever seen. I don't scare easy, in fact the original Halloween was the last time.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
DanielV.Nov 14, 2009
Not scary at all, but I enjoyed it.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
RayP.Oct 10, 2009
The low budget only adds to the frighteningly realistic feel this movie has. A genuinely scary movie which does a great job of slowly building the tension, and plays well on the fears of anyone who has even the slightest thought that there The low budget only adds to the frighteningly realistic feel this movie has. A genuinely scary movie which does a great job of slowly building the tension, and plays well on the fears of anyone who has even the slightest thought that there may be a spirit-world.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
BrandonG.Oct 12, 2009
a very well made movie that delivers. I felt it lived up to the buzz and hype.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
DanSOct 13, 2009
Omg! Creepiest scary movie I've seen in a looong time! Didn't need to use cheap scares either. I can't remember the last time I came home from a horror movie and was freaked out in my own home.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
CindyCNov 4, 2009
Slow, creeping dread interspersed with jump-out-of-your-seat shocks. A top-notch horror flick without the gore. Paranormal Activity deserves all the hype. Don't miss it!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
DavidT.Oct 15, 2009
This movie did a good job of building suspense in you, it had it's comical moments. Overall, it was alright - nothing that stuck with me for longer than 4 to 5 days.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
JonHOct 16, 2009
Creative, cleaver, scary, entertaining.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JenniferK.Oct 2, 2009
Slow but realistic and sets the tone of believability. This could be your friend or neighbor and you'd believe it too. The end was worth the wait through the sluggish dialogue. The last 30 minutes are terrifying, goosebumps for another hour.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
JerryROct 24, 2009
The budget is the only reason i gave this a ten. The scariest and just plain good movie i have seen in forever. Can't wait for the DVD release. Go in and treat it as a movie and you will see the genius.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
zachOct 24, 2009
I'm giving this movie a 10 because it is just flat out scary.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
nickwOct 28, 2009
So, you remake 'poltergeist' with a 15000 dollar budget and you have 'paranormal activity'. it has a simple set up; a man and a woman start taping their evenings at home and asleep to capture some supposed bizarre So, you remake 'poltergeist' with a 15000 dollar budget and you have 'paranormal activity'. it has a simple set up; a man and a woman start taping their evenings at home and asleep to capture some supposed bizarre phenomena. at first these nocturnal happenings are small, subtle and amusing but with each evening passing they grow into something wholly unsettling and then finally, horrific. a lot of what works here is the use of anticipation on its audience. i enjoyed how some practical effects worked on a very subtle level to generate some genuinely spooky moments. the actors were great and wholly believable as an ordinary couple trying to figure out how to deal with the situation. i had a good time given the nature of this beast.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
LeeHOct 2, 2009
Like others have said, a slow build up but well worth it. I have not truely been scared after seeing a movie in quite some time, and this movie was just the fix I needed.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
kikocOct 29, 2009
I was amazed at how tense this movie got as the minutes went by. like other people have said, don't go into it expecting a typical hollywood flick, because this is exactly the opposite. the less is more gimmick is revived in full force. I was amazed at how tense this movie got as the minutes went by. like other people have said, don't go into it expecting a typical hollywood flick, because this is exactly the opposite. the less is more gimmick is revived in full force. the beginning is slow but necessary for the setup, but the last 30 minutes of the film are just amazing. as low budget as it is, it more than makes up for it in the ingenuity the director shows with what he had to work with. the point is, go see this movie!… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
zachcOct 29, 2009
Hype scares me more than any movie. It has the innate ability to either totally corrupt or empower a film. In this case, I wouldn't say the hype totally destroyed this film however it didn't measure up to what some of the critics Hype scares me more than any movie. It has the innate ability to either totally corrupt or empower a film. In this case, I wouldn't say the hype totally destroyed this film however it didn't measure up to what some of the critics were hailing it to be. There were definitely some scary moments and at one point I let out an empowered "what the fuck?!" but 'Paranormal' won't hold up on any all time list. Peli does put forth an amazing effort at utilizing minimum production for maximum effect, I'll give him that and the acting was incredibly organic and therefore believable. However, aside from the barrage of jump out scares this movie is a clever and plodding build-up to a somewhat obvious result. Definitely worth seeing, but by no means will this be locking arms with 'Exorcist' and 'The shining' at any point in the foreseeable future.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
BrandonWOct 3, 2009
Amazing work and truly frightening. I just got home from seeing it not too long ago and I hope I am able to sleep at some point. Definite classic
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
ShaneBOct 5, 2009
Scary, scary, scary!!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
BenjaminT.Oct 6, 2009
I have not been this creeped out by a movie since The Sixth Sense. I really enjoy horror movies, but usually just because of how absurd they are and how comical that makes them. I got shivers down my body several times during this film and I have not been this creeped out by a movie since The Sixth Sense. I really enjoy horror movies, but usually just because of how absurd they are and how comical that makes them. I got shivers down my body several times during this film and memories of scenes haunted me for the next few nights. A very good movie that hopefully will be getting wide release soon (maybe in time for Halloween?)..… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
AlexOct 8, 2009
One of the scariest movies I have ever seen. And like many have said before me, I could not sleep at all last night after seeing it.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
JustinMOct 9, 2009
I actually would like to give this a higher score, but I am inclined to keep it at a 8 because to me it is not as scary as most of the marketing material touts it to be. I say to me because since the film does deal with demonic possession, I I actually would like to give this a higher score, but I am inclined to keep it at a 8 because to me it is not as scary as most of the marketing material touts it to be. I say to me because since the film does deal with demonic possession, I feel half of the fear generated by the film is one of an individual's beliefs and faiths, and since I am myself an Athiest, I do not find myself terrified by it like others, possibly for that reason. The film is terrific to watch, even though I was not scared, I was constantly entertained, and due to that it at least deserves a 7. The visual effects, though subtle, are extremely well pulled off, especially for be shot by a personal camcorder, and the acting is believable since the leads have a great chemistry and most of the script is improved. But as a reviewer has stated above, a great deal of the tension and that the viewer feels and takes away with them is all generated by their own personal phobias, and that is exactly why this film works differently for some rather than others.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
AndrewB.Oct 9, 2009
It took me 13 years to find a movie that didn't just illicit cheap "jump scare" tactics like so many horror flick today--I've been searching all these years for a movie that would build suspense to a boiling point and then unleash It took me 13 years to find a movie that didn't just illicit cheap "jump scare" tactics like so many horror flick today--I've been searching all these years for a movie that would build suspense to a boiling point and then unleash hell that would leave me secretly terrified for weeks. This is that movie. Thank goodness someone still has talent to make movies like this.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
SteveF.Jan 1, 2010
Everybody who didn't find this movie scary and believed it was funny are all a bunch of idiots. Yeah you know who you are...morons.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JamesFOct 11, 2009
The fact that not much happens during most of the film yet was able to make my heart beat really fast every time they went to bed, is a testament to the fact that the filmmaker actually has some talent. While i liked Blair witch i feel that The fact that not much happens during most of the film yet was able to make my heart beat really fast every time they went to bed, is a testament to the fact that the filmmaker actually has some talent. While i liked Blair witch i feel that this completely understood how real people that may or may not believe in ghosts would react. I see this director actually doing something substantial with his success.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
JayWOct 12, 2009
I thought this film was well done. I would say that it is far from being the "scariest film ever" but it does a great job of building tension for certain parts. Unfortunately that building of tension sometimes veers the film off into some I thought this film was well done. I would say that it is far from being the "scariest film ever" but it does a great job of building tension for certain parts. Unfortunately that building of tension sometimes veers the film off into some boring moments that drag the film down. I found the buildup to be tremendously slow at the beginning, and couldn't believe that this movie was carrying so much "hype" with it. Once you wade through a lot of that boredom, though, you are paid off with a pretty good final act. I actually think the hype did this film an injustice. Proclaiming it to be the "scariest" film ever may have put people in seats, but when the movie doesn't deliver on that promise, a lot of people will be left disappointed. All in all, though it is worth the price of admission for some good Halloween season thrills.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
BillS.Oct 12, 2009
Horror movie that delivers!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
PaulL.Oct 13, 2009
Definitely builds a good sense of dread with several hair-raising scenes that will stay with you. Considering the budget, very effective.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
AndréBNov 3, 2009
Very good movie to what it proposes. It doesn't promise much, but it's a good movie to get you scared. You probably will be able to sleep just well at night. But that's ok.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
MartyVNov 3, 2009
In true "Blair Witch" style, Paranormal Activity makes you believe that what you are watching is actually happening. The gradual buildup throughout the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seat as things begin to intesify as the film In true "Blair Witch" style, Paranormal Activity makes you believe that what you are watching is actually happening. The gradual buildup throughout the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seat as things begin to intesify as the film progresses. Think of it as the Blair Witch project except things actually happen.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
CaitNov 6, 2009
Anyone who said this was boring or needed special effects clearly knows nothing about film. The minimalism of "paranormal" was pure genius, and the writing and acting were so natural and incredibly believable. So what if it looked like a Anyone who said this was boring or needed special effects clearly knows nothing about film. The minimalism of "paranormal" was pure genius, and the writing and acting were so natural and incredibly believable. So what if it looked like a YouTube video? It was SUPPOSED to. That's what made it so believable, and therefore, very scary. The build-up was well-paced and built up to a terrifying climax. The end though, was admittedly, sort of a cop out. "Katie was never seen again" ? (or whatever) Lame. But everything else was great.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
RandyM.Oct 17, 2009
Oren Peli successfully delivers one terrifying piece of horror work. "Paranormal Activity" is genuinely chilling and effective, especially considering the measly budget. Yes, it's a little slow on occasion, but Peli's ability to Oren Peli successfully delivers one terrifying piece of horror work. "Paranormal Activity" is genuinely chilling and effective, especially considering the measly budget. Yes, it's a little slow on occasion, but Peli's ability to coax terror out of the audience without using cheap scare tactics more than makes up for it. Be warned: the last 15 minutes will leave you gasping for air.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
ToddA.Nov 7, 2009
_Paranormal Activity_ is best at couching the supernatural in realism. While certainly fitting and skillful, the actors are not your generic, hard-bodied, Hollywood starlets, and they seem likable and benignly plain. The movie similarly _Paranormal Activity_ is best at couching the supernatural in realism. While certainly fitting and skillful, the actors are not your generic, hard-bodied, Hollywood starlets, and they seem likable and benignly plain. The movie similarly forgoes sensationalized digital scares and the tired butchery of films like _Saw_ for a clever and effectively balanced mix of harrowing shocks that accompanies the subtle and steady breakdown of the lead characters. At times, Katie and Micah may seem to make foolish decisions, but even that contributes to the authenticity of their performances. How well would someone adjust to the fact or even entertain the idea that a haunting, something that betrays all reason, is happening in his or her own home? Not well, of course. Additionally, this camera work, although still a … Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JasonOct 17, 2009
If you take ONE thing away from this short review, it is: DO NOT WATCH THIS IN A THEATER! Rent this movie and watch it at home. I am rating this movie a 5, Despite my theater experience. There were times in the theater when I would have been If you take ONE thing away from this short review, it is: DO NOT WATCH THIS IN A THEATER! Rent this movie and watch it at home. I am rating this movie a 5, Despite my theater experience. There were times in the theater when I would have been incredibly scared, horrified and freaked, only to have the idiots around me totally kill the mood. I'm so disappointed by my experience, but you'll be glad to know none of it has to do with the movie. Now onto my short review. This movie is incredibly good, and I expect it to stay with me. There are no gimmicky, horror-movie tactics, and the gradual build of horror pays off BIG time in the end. The characters are believable, and I felt a strong connection to them throughout the movie. The best part about this movie is how "real" it is. At no point throughout the movie did I roll my eyes and sigh as I usually do when I can see obvious horror movie production faults. Adding to the reality of the film is the tempo. It goes from night to day and back frequently, and while some may dislike this, I found it pushing and pulling me to and from the edge of my seat. It was emotionally draining, which is a rare, and eery feeling for a movie, and it made the experience that much better. PLEASE see this movie. PLEASE do not see it in a theater.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
EricJ.Oct 18, 2009
There was a bit too much media hype, but make no mistake, this is a very well crafted film. Where it is most effective is the sleeping sequences. I think the director realized he had something with that footage and it works very well. The There was a bit too much media hype, but make no mistake, this is a very well crafted film. Where it is most effective is the sleeping sequences. I think the director realized he had something with that footage and it works very well. The only weakness is the Micah Sloat character. You do have to wonder why he is so willing to pursue the demon even though he knows what the consequences are for Katie. Also why didn't the both of them go for the nearest catholic priest when the demonologist was not available? Katie Featherston makes a very solid debut and carries this film. The editing is very solid. The pacing of the narrative is perfect. This movie slowly builds to a very dramatic ending. A very solid effort. This will be the Halloween movie to see this year. Don't miss it but don't build it up too much in your mind before you see it.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JordanS.Oct 2, 2009
The scariest and most entertaining horror film in a couple of years. Amazing work, especially considering their $15,000 budget.
1 of 2 users found this helpful
8
nboley08Aug 16, 2010
Nowhere near as scary as its closely related movie "The Blair Witch Project", but still much scarier than the average "Saw" movie. I'm not somebody to believe in demons and that type of exorcism stuff, but this film is genuinely creepy andNowhere near as scary as its closely related movie "The Blair Witch Project", but still much scarier than the average "Saw" movie. I'm not somebody to believe in demons and that type of exorcism stuff, but this film is genuinely creepy and very wellmade. Some of the demon's antics are dumb and pointless and just showing off by the filmmakers (turning the lights on and off) but it's hard not to be captivated by this little horror film.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
9
AlexAug 16, 2010
the scariest film i have watched. scarier than blair witch, and the only film to ACTUALLY scare me. if you liked blair witch, you'll like this. its a film everyone should see. a TRUE horror, not like the grudge, or those excuse-of-a-horrorthe scariest film i have watched. scarier than blair witch, and the only film to ACTUALLY scare me. if you liked blair witch, you'll like this. its a film everyone should see. a TRUE horror, not like the grudge, or those excuse-of-a-horror films they seem to be releasing more and more often nowdays.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
9
IanM197Oct 29, 2010
Paranormal Activity, the film that touted itself as the best-of-it's-breed, the scariest of the "first-person film" genre, actually doesn't do a half-bad job. It's definitely scary (if the sound of the footsteps walking up the stairs in theParanormal Activity, the film that touted itself as the best-of-it's-breed, the scariest of the "first-person film" genre, actually doesn't do a half-bad job. It's definitely scary (if the sound of the footsteps walking up the stairs in the dead of night doesn't fill you with dread, nothing will) and it's both fun and terrifying watching the escalation of what happens throughout the movie. People obviously hate it, and people obviously love it. I was on the loving side. For the first time ever in this genre, I look forward to what the sequel can bring to the table.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
10
feardrinkerSep 1, 2010
Certainly a polarizing movie, as other posters have noted. For those with vivid imaginations, this movie is a rare treat; what is left unshown is what scares you. I give this movie a 9 because it is the first movie to actually scare me inCertainly a polarizing movie, as other posters have noted. For those with vivid imaginations, this movie is a rare treat; what is left unshown is what scares you. I give this movie a 9 because it is the first movie to actually scare me in some time. True, the bickering yuppie couple cn be annoying at times, but the tension that is carefully built throughout the movie more than makes up for this. Also, to those who didn't like the ending (I'm one of them): I have read that the ending was a concession to producers or distributers. The director intended something else.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
Stephchan1901Oct 12, 2010
Though this movie has been called nothing more than just a piece of great marketing. I happen to believe that like the Blair Witch Project in 1999, PA scares you... and keeps you scared. I was kind of disturbed by the ending, but its a horrorThough this movie has been called nothing more than just a piece of great marketing. I happen to believe that like the Blair Witch Project in 1999, PA scares you... and keeps you scared. I was kind of disturbed by the ending, but its a horror movie, and couldnt expect a happy ending. Though the people in this film were actors, you cant help but to think about the actual accounts that inspired the movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
RumblebeeloveNov 26, 2010
This one has a slow pace, but once you get there it is really unnerving. Definitely see this one with a group of people for the best effect. It may be a little silly at times, but the feeling of a good movie is there.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
8
TheQuietGamerOct 24, 2018
Arguably the movie responsible for the found footage craze. I think it retroactively gets a lot of hate more for what it caused, rather than for what it is. Expectations going into it are also likely a sizable factor. Everything I had heardArguably the movie responsible for the found footage craze. I think it retroactively gets a lot of hate more for what it caused, rather than for what it is. Expectations going into it are also likely a sizable factor. Everything I had heard about this franchise told me it was going to be all big thrills and jump scares. In reality this is more of slow burner. Much like The Blair Witch Project, the majority of the experience is about what's happening off-screen with a few big moments saved for the tail end of the film.

What worked most for me was that the characters and setup were believable given the context. We're essentially watching someone get too caught up in events to truly recognize the danger he's in. Intentionally egging on the demon haunting his girlfriend because the possibility of capturing it on film excites him, implicitly because he could get famous. Even when it becomes clear that something is going very wrong he refuses outside help for reasons of ego and not wanting to share whatever possible glory that could be mined from something like this. This downward spiral is fascinating to watch, especially in this era of internet clout and everybody trying to make it big on YouTube. I couldn't help but draw comparisons to the whole Logan Paul controversy in terms of someone unthinkingly crossing a line for views. So in a sense this movie might have only gotten better with age.

It does a lot for such a low budget and puts it's own spin on the TBWP formula. Not terribly effective at raising the hairs, but it might be deeper than people give it credit for because of the aforementioned context. Worth watching for the influence on overpopulating the found footage subgenre alone, Paranormal Activity is notable for it's unexpectedly above average writing and slow build up to the large scares.… Expand
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7
Sarlacc12Feb 5, 2011
Paranormal Activity 2 is a well done movie. It is suspenseful and can be quite frightening. The first few scenes are kinda boring but the movie does pick up and becomes quite interesting. It is no where near as frightening as it's reputation though.
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8
KendylKlownfishApr 17, 2011
Paranormal Activity is more or less over-hyped, but you WILL jump more than once. Pros: The Blair Witch-influenced mockumentary is impressive; thoroughly narrated; refreshingly tense and suspenseful. Cons: PA isn't for all audiences: it isParanormal Activity is more or less over-hyped, but you WILL jump more than once. Pros: The Blair Witch-influenced mockumentary is impressive; thoroughly narrated; refreshingly tense and suspenseful. Cons: PA isn't for all audiences: it is either too scary or too fake, pick your choice.… Expand
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7
jstrickler872Oct 22, 2011
The movie was going great until the ending. It felt so real that it made you freak out at such little things. The ending ruined the entire movie. But this movie scared me and most other people than most of the horror films out there, and thisThe movie was going great until the ending. It felt so real that it made you freak out at such little things. The ending ruined the entire movie. But this movie scared me and most other people than most of the horror films out there, and this was a very low budget movie.… Expand
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8
RocketcrossingMay 10, 2011
So many movies nowadays are made with this philosophy in mind: "CG effects make everything better." Well, I'm here today to tell you this is not true and, in fact, it's one of the stupidest statements I've ever heard uttered from someone'sSo many movies nowadays are made with this philosophy in mind: "CG effects make everything better." Well, I'm here today to tell you this is not true and, in fact, it's one of the stupidest statements I've ever heard uttered from someone's mouth. Computer graphics are a great resource for filmmakers, as it allows them to capture moments that are otherwise impossible, or enhance certain scenes to drive a point, and yes, they can even just make a scene flat-out look better. You know what else they can do? They can totally and utterly ruin movies that would have otherwise been pretty decent, or even good. Paranormal Activity is a great example of this. I don't think there's a person on this planet with an IQ above 3, who would argue the fact that additional special effects would have RUINED this film. It's lack of CGI, and reliance on practical effects, is exactly what made this film so great. There is power behind realism, and this is something that 90% of Hollywood film makers forget. This is the first time, in a long time, that I actually made audible noise as a result of being scared in the theater. The actors aren't really noteworthy, but it is important to mention that I felt that they could be legitimate human beings, and since this is shot in the faux documentary style, it makes it more believable. All-in-all Paranormal Activity goes into my book of the best horror films in recent years, and if anyone hasn't seen it yet, please do. If anyone claims to not have been scared by this movie then I ask that you watch it by yourself in your house at night and then make a statement like that, because I have and let me tell you, I was terrified - but having a blast the entire time. Read the rest of the review on my film review site, rocketcrossing.com, and check out our facebook page at facebook.com/rocketcrossing… Expand
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10
JfiloJun 20, 2011
This movie did what I expected: scare my butt off! Idk why the reviews from the users are so low. This is totally worth it. Something I would like to watch again.
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8
asjklasOct 22, 2011
Paranormal Activity uses its low-budget, mockumentary styled thrills and chills in the wittiest ways, resulting in one of the scariest films in recent years.
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8
alexandergreenSep 4, 2011
I'm not a big fan of the horror genre, but this film intrigued me, so I had to give it a watch. The film builds suspense almost perfectly, and the low budget doesn't make it tacky in any way. A frighteningly uncomfortable and chillingI'm not a big fan of the horror genre, but this film intrigued me, so I had to give it a watch. The film builds suspense almost perfectly, and the low budget doesn't make it tacky in any way. A frighteningly uncomfortable and chilling feature, just what it wanted to achieve.… Expand
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8
LetzTalkMoveezOct 22, 2012
It's not really all that scary for a while; then it just becomes terrifying.
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9
VRossiOct 13, 2011
One of the best I've seen. The opening was a bit boring for me. But I liked how it had no "boo!" kind of scene which I find very silly. The way the movie gets creepier slowly overtime gave me goosebumps. And it's also one of few horror movieOne of the best I've seen. The opening was a bit boring for me. But I liked how it had no "boo!" kind of scene which I find very silly. The way the movie gets creepier slowly overtime gave me goosebumps. And it's also one of few horror movie that got me gasping. Beautifully done.… Expand
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9
SachiNov 17, 2011
Paranormal Activity is a freaky movie, the movie will likely scare the crap out of you. The movie is shot with a cheap camera with a small budget but it is still very scary. The plot is well done but not the greatest, the acting of theParanormal Activity is a freaky movie, the movie will likely scare the crap out of you. The movie is shot with a cheap camera with a small budget but it is still very scary. The plot is well done but not the greatest, the acting of the characters is great but the thing about Paranormal Activity is that it's scares are actually very creepy. After watching this you will be afraid of your own house for a while. The flaws are that the plot can get clunky at times and the dialogue can be somewhat moronic at times but that's all right. Overall Paranormal Activity is a great movie that will scare the life out of you, there are flaws that stop it from acheiving greatness but it is still a worth watch. It is by far the scariest movie I have seen. Breakdown for "Paranormal Activity": Presentation: 9.0, Plot: 8.5, Acting: 8, Dialogue: 8, Lasting Appeal: 9. Score: 8.5 out of 10 "Great"… Expand
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8
T-rAvDec 12, 2011
(January 14, 2010)
Paranormal Activity is the perfect example of how horror films do not need large budgets with excess gore and violence to scare the child in all of us. This movie takes the phrase âless is moreâ?(January 14, 2010)
Paranormal Activity is the perfect example of how horror films do not need large budgets with excess gore and violence to scare the child in all of us. This movie takes the phrase âless is moreâ? and runs as far as possible with it. Like The Blair Witch Project before it, this movie not only grows the horror genre, but takes it into a brand new direction.
The story only features four characters, two of which are Micah and Katie. They are a young married couple and Katie is different from most people; ever since youth she has been haunted by something out of the ordinary at bedtime. Micha, who is dangerously curious about the situation, decides to purchase an expensive camera to observe the haunting at night. As the film goes on slowly more and more is reveled about what is causing the disturbances during the night, but I will keep hush about the rest of plot. Realistic is the key word I would use for this movie. This has some of the best acting out there, it is almost too realistic. If someone stumbled onto a clip from this film with no explanation behind it I guarantee they would believe that is was real. The lead pair play off of each other so well, with their quick reactions and remarks, that it really pushes the film past other films of this handy cam horror genre. It is a film that will make all inspiring film directors say: âI wish I would have thought of this!â?

The only real complaint I have is a small one. This movie seems like a one trick pony. I do not feel like I could watch this film again on a standard television and get the same chills and thrills as I did in the theater. This film really does play off the atmosphere you are in while watching it. I do believe this film will go down as a cult classic such as Blair Witch though, and will be the movie that will forever spread by word of mouth.
The fact that a fifteen thousand dollar budget film with no added bells and whistles to it, warped my mind more than any other recent horror film is a bit âParanormalâ? its self. I personally had a few rough nights of sleep after viewing this movie. I was not to terrified while viewing the film in the theater, but as soon as I got to my bed and rested my head; the visions of this creepy film kept playing back in my head. I felt like I was eight years old again afraid of the monster watching me in my closet. Go see this film in the theater with a few companions while you still can. It is a social experience you do not want to miss.… Expand
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7
Tss5078Feb 24, 2013
I'll be a man and admit it... This movie made me jump quite a few times and left me thinking about it long after it was over. I have been a Horror fan for a long time and that's a very unusual reaction for me. Some people didn't like how itI'll be a man and admit it... This movie made me jump quite a few times and left me thinking about it long after it was over. I have been a Horror fan for a long time and that's a very unusual reaction for me. Some people didn't like how it was filmed on camcorders or how it started out slowly, but not me, I thought this was a great movie and new territory for the genre. This is one they'll be talking about for a while.… Expand
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9
elreader46Aug 19, 2012
When you see this movie, you will see how unimportant sleep is. Although parts of this movie are freaking scary, other parts just come off as lame. Overall the acting is very good, but most scares just come off as suspense.
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7
beingryanjudeAug 31, 2014
Not only is Paranormal Activity a fine achievement for its genre, it is also a filmmakers masterpiece for little to no budget. It's thrilling and fresh.
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10
BeanbeanzMay 7, 2012
I don't get how people can dislike this movie. It wasn't a predictable horror movie, you know where girls be tripping in the woods and crap. This movie legitimately made me jump numerous times. Not something most horror movies can do to me.
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9
SatiricalewokNov 8, 2014
I would say that of the films I have seen, this is the best horror film of the decade. It is beautifully paced, very well acted and the scares gradually up in intensity, leaving you really very scared by the end of the movie. I think they useI would say that of the films I have seen, this is the best horror film of the decade. It is beautifully paced, very well acted and the scares gradually up in intensity, leaving you really very scared by the end of the movie. I think they use the whole found footage medium better than anyone since Blair witch, and this film had some genuine lasting scares.… Expand
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9
charlieW24Jul 14, 2012
Proves that the silence, the darkness, the sense of dread in films is scarier than any monster movie, or any horror that shows the ghost/demon. In the whole time that I have watched films I've never been so on edge over what may happen next,Proves that the silence, the darkness, the sense of dread in films is scarier than any monster movie, or any horror that shows the ghost/demon. In the whole time that I have watched films I've never been so on edge over what may happen next, there is probably more silence than speech in this film, but how scared you actually are takes away from that. The positioning of the camera is perfect, letting us basically everything occurring in the house in one shot. But the scariest part of this film by a mile is the aftermath of watching, the psychological fear playing on your mind as you try to sleep and begin to panic, when I fall asleep what next? It really is a film that you won't forget, it may not be perfect in scripting or acting , but it will go down as one of the scariest films in history.… Expand
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7
SpangleOct 24, 2016
Paranormal Activity is an incredibly divisive horror film, largely because of its slow pacing and found footage feature. These combined will lead many audiences to hate a film. Yet, Paranormal Activity makes terrific use of its found footageParanormal Activity is an incredibly divisive horror film, largely because of its slow pacing and found footage feature. These combined will lead many audiences to hate a film. Yet, Paranormal Activity makes terrific use of its found footage element, though it suffers from stupid character syndrome. While incredibly scary and those scary parts cannot be downplayed in the least, Micah being the stupidest man alive really did hamper my enjoyment of the film from the get go.

While relying heavily on jump scares to elicit fears, these jump scares actually effective. Jump scares tend to be predictable, but that predictability comes from being able to see the entity in question. Paranormal Activity leaves you in the dark on this front, never showing the demon that has haunted Katie since she was eight years old. For this, director Oren Peli demonstrates knowledge of the fact that the thing that goes bump in the night is a lot less scary when you know what it actually is. Though we know it is a demon, the shroud of mystery it is blanketed in keeps it from ever being anything less than scary.

Though its scares can be seen coming at times, the actions take by the demon remain unpredictable and keep the viewer on edge throughout. Plus, some details thrown in such as past experiences and the photo really add additional layers of terror to this found footage franchise's first entry. In this way, the film keeps you guessing and though you know something weird is about to go down, you never quite know what is about to happen. Thus, when it does, Peli's debut film still manages to freak the hell out of you.

However, the film is handicapped by Micah being stupid. Though Dr. Fredericks says to not communicate with the demon or antagonize it, he decides to do both. As the film shows, this was a truly bad strategic move. Fortunately, the demon gets his revenge and puts the audience out of its misery when dealing with Micah. Had the film not been so enjoyable or truly bone chilling, Micah's stupidity would have undermined the film even further.

As it stands, Paranormal Activity is a truly scary found footage horror film that does take a bit to get to the good parts, but once it does, oh boy do they ever work.… Expand
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9
NixySep 27, 2012
For most people, this film falls into one of two categories: slow, boring and unimaginative or absolutely terrifying. I found myself falling into the latter category. For me, this film kept my attention throughout. Filmed a little like 'TheFor most people, this film falls into one of two categories: slow, boring and unimaginative or absolutely terrifying. I found myself falling into the latter category. For me, this film kept my attention throughout. Filmed a little like 'The Blair Witch Project', it has an air of realism about it that other, CGI orientated films often fail to provide. However, if you prefer fast pacing and more 'in your face' thrills, then this film is not for you. It is undoubtedly fairly slow in terms of introducing the horror; several nights go by when very little, if anything, is 'caught' on camera and things which are caught are small and easy to miss altogether. As the film progresses, the activity picks up but it still does not fall into the 'horror' genre in the traditional sense. I found this film absolutely terrifying for the same reason that I can get scared by books: the horror aspects are not explicitly thrust into your face but instead are left to your imagination, and in this sense, 'Paranormal Activity' is psychologically disturbing without the 'jump out of your skin' moments you get from other horrors. I found the pace of the film perfect for what it was trying to achieve, suspense, which in my opinion is what this film does best. You are never shown exactly what it is that's meant to be haunting the couple which, for many, is the worst part simply because it is then left entirely up to you to create an image in your mind or to predict its next action. Thus, if you happen to possess an over active imagination, chances are this film will make you terrified of anything that goes bump in the night for several days after watching it.

The reason this film did not quite get 10/10 from me is firstly because I absolutely hate alternative endings. I think a film should have, and stick to, one ending so the fact that this film has 2-3 (can't remember exactly...) I really don't like. Also, there is a message at the beginning of the film claiming that it is entirely police footage, something else that I find particularly irritating. Very few people are dim enough to believe that that statement has any basis in reality whatsoever before you even begin to question the logic behind our emergency services releasing footage for entertainment purposes. It's something that's been done several times before and it immediately puts the film into that 'oh look, shaky home video footage, how exciting' category before the first scene has even began. But taking those fairly minor points aside, this film is definitely worth a watch and far superior to the second and third film.… Expand
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7
TheWalrus2000Mar 9, 2013
Though its boring at times, Paranormal Activity gives a shocking and creepy feel to an on-camera horror that makes everyone believe in its horror.
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7
HaithamBayazeedJun 4, 2013
Pure horror, a masterpiece of none gory compelling thriller, the acting is good as long as you don't get into it, the plot is terrifying, and the scenes are all original and the found footage is way too better than other movies, but it getsPure horror, a masterpiece of none gory compelling thriller, the acting is good as long as you don't get into it, the plot is terrifying, and the scenes are all original and the found footage is way too better than other movies, but it gets sometimes boring, it is not fully perfect, but as a horror, it is great… Expand
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7
python2000Aug 28, 2013
Paranormal Activity has practically no plot or character development at all. But do you really care when characters are being dragged out of bed, thrown against cameras and attacked by freakin terrifying invisible demons!
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7
mds03Mar 3, 2013
What a freaky and unnerving movie. Paranormal Activity scared the heck out me. Especially because I watched it at night. It is a very clever and original movie. Just be sure you don't watch it alone.
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9
jonathanminh22Apr 24, 2013
This movie is good, it does deliver scares, and i'm still obsessing with it, and while i watch the movie, i did jump out of the chair sometimes. So it is worth to watch, despite a little bit boring beginning
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7
busbfranOct 23, 2015
A low budget, frightening movie that will generally give you the creeps. Apart from some character inconsistency and unanswered backstory. Paranormal activity is an exciting new horror and I can't wait for more.
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7
MovieGuysMar 9, 2014
Paranormal Activity has no more substance than an empty box; instead, it relies on jump scares, and implies rather than shows. And in this case, it works out pretty nicely to make for a good scary flick.
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7
LelandskellOct 20, 2013
Paranormal Activity was released in 2007 to on demand users and others at film festivals, it wasn't for a few more years until it received a theatrical release. The movie received much attention for being similar to the 1999 movie, The BlairParanormal Activity was released in 2007 to on demand users and others at film festivals, it wasn't for a few more years until it received a theatrical release. The movie received much attention for being similar to the 1999 movie, The Blair Witch Project, which featured the same kind of shooting and dialogue style. The film has two main characters, Katie and Micah. The two have just moved in together, and weird stuff starts to happen as they move in. This is not a haunted house movie, this a haunted person movie. Katie has been plagued since she was a child, and over the course of 3 weeks, the presence becomes stronger, until they reach the climax. When this movie came out, it was regarded as being extremely scary. It was hyped up in advertisements and other sources in the internet, spreading the reputation even more. The movie doesn't really have any jump acres or loud music, just eerie, quiet things that make you cringe. While the dialogue might not be he best, this is a fairly scary movie. With the Conjuring now out, this movie is not nearly as scary. All in all, this is a solid ghost movie that may or may not be overhyped. 7/10.… Expand
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10
MuddsjrJan 19, 2014
in short, Paranormal Activity is simply a terrifyingly ingenious roller coaster of a film that proves that horror films are far better when less overdone and more simple.
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8
FilmVirtueNov 30, 2014
It doesn't have gore, nor explosive sets or even a thrilling storyline, but somehow "Paranormal Activity" pulls off an old school horror film, with old school filming and shows your budget doesn't have to be big, to make a film a big hit.
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10
lukechristianscApr 27, 2014
"Paranormal Activity is a suspense horror film ". the thing that was the problem is that micah's camera was the problem it was causing the demon to be powerful with the negative energy thanks to him there gonna be dead. Grade A
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10
CherryxldNov 23, 2014
Paranormal Activity es una película que te atrapa con el miedo que produce mientras avanza el film. Sin dudas es una gran película de terror que entretiene y llama la atención, además de curiosa e interesante.
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7
ydnar4Mar 5, 2015
Paranormal Activity is a found footage film so really that can be what turns people off from the get go. This movie is fairly scary considering that there is very little blood and guts. Paranormal Activity is also one of the biggest financialParanormal Activity is a found footage film so really that can be what turns people off from the get go. This movie is fairly scary considering that there is very little blood and guts. Paranormal Activity is also one of the biggest financial successes considering it only too 15 thousand dollars to make and earned 200 million at the box office. The overnight scenes in this film are always so unpredictable the first time you watch it and its really hard not to honestly feel terrified. This movie is not perfect by any means though. I really don't care for the male character, Micah. He is just such an annoying character because he doesn't everything he's told not to do and every time there is any signs of paranormal activity he has to run for the camera. Also the small budget allows only five characters in the movie and of course it could've been scarier if there was more money to spend.… Expand
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9
horcrux2007Sep 2, 2014
"Paranormal Activity" is one of the scariest movies that has come out in a long time. It puts fear into a place everyone is the most vulnerable: while sleeping. The first half of the film moves pretty slowly, but it picks up and becomes a"Paranormal Activity" is one of the scariest movies that has come out in a long time. It puts fear into a place everyone is the most vulnerable: while sleeping. The first half of the film moves pretty slowly, but it picks up and becomes a nightmarish ride until the very last scare. It's a genuinely terrifying experience that I made the mistake of watching late at night.... seriously, don't do that.… Expand
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8
JohnMasterLNov 1, 2015
La película tiene 2 formas de presentarse, el primero es el tipo "Falso Documental" donde nos permite vivir todas las situaciones de una manera mas real, pues podemos vivir y ver claramente todo como si estuviéramos dentro de la película. YLa película tiene 2 formas de presentarse, el primero es el tipo "Falso Documental" donde nos permite vivir todas las situaciones de una manera mas real, pues podemos vivir y ver claramente todo como si estuviéramos dentro de la película. Y por otra parte esta la parte de "Las Noches" esto es lo fuerte de la película, aparte de ser una experiencia innovadora y poco vista en cines, no es aburrida, al contrario, existe y se crea la tensión, el suspenso surge y los screamers funcionan increíblemente bien. Una experiencia paranormal muy entretenida y que funciona perfectamente.… Expand
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8
youlouzNov 10, 2014
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Outstanding horror movie with plenty of action and no blood.

This may be a spoiler to some, but it isn't really, many sort of scary things happen that aren't to scary happen, to then lead to terrifying things at the end.

PROS
-Terrifying
-Makes you think whats real and what isn't
-Satisfying ending of terror
-Well made

CONS
-A little dry and boring till end… Expand
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8
MovieManiac83Apr 25, 2015
The familiar looks different at night. Incandescent lights don't quite chase away the shadows with the effectiveness of the sun. The rooms and hallways of a home, so comforting at noon, can become cloaked with unease past the witching hour.The familiar looks different at night. Incandescent lights don't quite chase away the shadows with the effectiveness of the sun. The rooms and hallways of a home, so comforting at noon, can become cloaked with unease past the witching hour. This fear of the dark, one of humankind's most common phobias, lies at the heart of Paranormal Activity, as a seemingly normal house is turned into a nest of terror once the daylight has faded. Things that go bump in the night can instantly transform the most mundane location into a place of menace. This is a tale of the supernatural, but its strength is that it is rooted in the ordinary. That's what makes it creepy.

In a sense, this is The Blair Witch Project redux. It replaces the "lost in the woods" premise of the surprise 1999 hit with a "trapped in a house" concept. Both movies were made on shoestring budgets, pretend to be constructed from "lost" documentary footage, use the camera to develop a first-person narrative, and - most importantly - rely on the viewer's imagination to build upon the horror that is only hinted at on screen. The Blair Witch Project is atmosphere incarnate, and a similar claim can be made about Paranormal Activity. Both movies build momentum by playing upon the expectation that something ominous is going to happen. Since our perspective is constrained by what the camera can see, we are not privy to anything that happens beyond its field of view, although we can often hear sounds. Paranormal Activity's approach is simple but undeniably effective. Still, those who demand blood, gore, and violence from horror films may be bored by what this one offers. It's a largely cerebral experience, and it could face the kind of backlash that overwhelmed The Blair Witch Project when it exited its phenomenally successful art house run and opened wide into multiplexes. What was embraced by audiences appreciative of the unconventional was rejected by those weaned on mainstream horror. Only time will tell whether Paranormal Activity's tighter pacing and different setting will allow it to escape a similar fate.

The pillars upon which Paranormal Activity are founded are verisimilitude and simplicity. The movie doesn't try to do too much. It doesn't rely on special effects. It's basically one set (a house), one camera, carefully placed lights, and two actors who are entirely convincing playing these characters. There's not a lot more to the movie than that. Many of the daytime conversations between Katie and Micah are either extemporized or made to seem that way. Director Oren Peli has crafted the movie with such deceptive simplicity that it almost seems like anyone could do it. And that, in a way, is its genius. It helps us to relate. It helps us to buy into the ghost story in a way that we might not if the production was more lavishly mounted. I don't believe in ghosts, but this is not a movie I would want to watch at home by myself past midnight. Suddenly, the natural settling noises of the house would sound anything but natural.

Is the movie scary? For a horror movie, that is often the bottom line. While it may be a stretch to call any motion picture conventionally "frightening," Paranormal Activity is suffused with a creepy, disturbing atmosphere that envelops the viewer. The "boo!" moments are effectively constructed to generate the necessary jolt without seeming unnecessarily manipulative. The ending, which was apparently selected over Peli's original version after being suggested by Steven Spielberg, is appropriate for the story.

In some ways, the marketing campaign for Paranormal Activity threatens to dwarf the movie. Paramount is building interest on the strong word-of-mouth generated by targeted screenings and by the exclusivity factor of slowly rolling it out to select theaters in specific markets. Those who feel "left out" in the early stages of the phased distribution can "demand" the movie on a website. Paramount promises that once 1,000,000 demands are recorded, the movie will go wide. (This is a bit of sham, since plans to distribute prints to multiplexes around the country were finalized weeks ago, but the website provides viewers with the illusion of participation.) The Halloween season is the perfect time of the year for a production such as this. Every October, we're all looking for a good scare. In an era when mainstream horror is often indistinguishable from self-parody, it takes something basic like this to be diabolically successful.… Expand
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10
UrbanlistenerNov 24, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A landmark in the 2000's horror films, it is, for 2009, very original, surprising and very well executed. It is based on tension and fear of the unknown. Sometimes when nothing is happening, this where you loose it because the suspense is unbearable. A shocking and unsettling experience fo it's time.… Expand
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9
PanchogulMay 10, 2020
La primera entrega de Actividad Paranormal fue todo un fenómeno en su época trayendo de vuelta el género de Metraje Encontrado o Falso Documental, lograba asustar por aquel entonces, pero actualmente ya no causa el mismo efecto, sin embargo,La primera entrega de Actividad Paranormal fue todo un fenómeno en su época trayendo de vuelta el género de Metraje Encontrado o Falso Documental, lograba asustar por aquel entonces, pero actualmente ya no causa el mismo efecto, sin embargo, sigue siendo una de las películas más influyentes de su estilo.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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9
FuturedirectorMar 23, 2016
A simple house with a very simple and not-thrilling-enough plot is changed drastically with a noisy story-telling that would put the audience in truly shock, unremarkable characters that just unaware form "ghosts" and, of course, a shockingA simple house with a very simple and not-thrilling-enough plot is changed drastically with a noisy story-telling that would put the audience in truly shock, unremarkable characters that just unaware form "ghosts" and, of course, a shocking contents to scare the viewers till death. A horror-film masterpiece.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
cem12Nov 10, 2017
Una de las mejores sagas de películas de terror que he visto. Una de las cosas que mas acojona es que esta basada en hechos reales. hay tres finales alternativos, original (registro de policía), película y especial.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
FilipeNetoFeb 10, 2020
It's not a movie for everyone, but it's worth it.

This is one of those films that I always heard about but never predisposed to see ... until yesterday. I already knew, and some reading to prepare this criticism confirmed this information toIt's not a movie for everyone, but it's worth it.

This is one of those films that I always heard about but never predisposed to see ... until yesterday. I already knew, and some reading to prepare this criticism confirmed this information to me, that this is one of the most profitable low-budget films ever, as it was quite cheap to make and made a huge commercial success, marking the cinema of terror, like it or not the marks left.

The script is simple: it is like watching a home video, where a young couple seeks to document the paranormal phenomena that are happening in the house where they live. There are no initial credits, the final credits have been reduced to what is required by law for commercial exhibition, there is no soundtrack, the filming is done with a homemade camera and everything is reduced to the simplest. This makes the movie look authentic and the special effects added are so compelling that they work very well. The ending is a little out of place because it is more exaggerated, but at least it provides a good climax.

The cast is small but capable and competent. Katie Featherston is easily the soul of the film, but Micah Sloat has a good relationship with her, although he's never been so good and his character is more annoying. The most boring part of this film, being a film based on homemade "security camera" footage, is that there are a lot of minutes where we are simply looking at a static scene waiting to see something happen.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
0326990qdiun123Apr 27, 2018
이 영화가 주는 엄청난 현실감과 충격이 기억에 남는다. 초반과 중반의 단계적인 전개가 지루할 수도 있지만 나는 오히려 그것이 마음에 들었다. 한 사람이 서서히 미쳐가는 과정을 적나라하게 보여주어 공포감을 더하기 때문이다.이 영화가 주는 엄청난 현실감과 충격이 기억에 남는다. 초반과 중반의 단계적인 전개가 지루할 수도 있지만 나는 오히려 그것이 마음에 들었다. 한 사람이 서서히 미쳐가는 과정을 적나라하게 보여주어 공포감을 더하기 때문이다.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
LyssahLyssahOct 2, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Yes, parts can be cheesy, but this movie did so much with so little! Very little over-the-top cgi effects, or forced jump scares just because, they used what they had and it worked. The way it plays out is very creepy and subtle. Turn down the lights and turn up the volume. One of my favorites. The last scene is the only mild disappointment for me. The bad cgi ruined the mood.… Expand
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10
TonyDOct 18, 2009
Loved it. It is very creepy more than it is scary and all leads with your imagination. The movie also dwells on personal opinion on what is "scary" or not. I have watched all the "scary" movies in the theaters ever since i was twelve and i Loved it. It is very creepy more than it is scary and all leads with your imagination. The movie also dwells on personal opinion on what is "scary" or not. I have watched all the "scary" movies in the theaters ever since i was twelve and i was always disappointed. Blair Witch even made me laugh i would have never thought of Blair Witch when i watched this. I guess i want to believe in ghosts/demons enough for me to be creeped out from this movie. the actors were great as a team. after the semi-slow start it starts to build up and make you on the edge of you seat. i loved it, but then again...that it my opinon.… Expand
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9
RayR.Oct 19, 2009
I would have given it a 10, but there were some things that didn't make sense, like why none of their neighbors heard them screaming. And why the couple NEVER spent the night anywhere else. Having said that, I still believe that it was I would have given it a 10, but there were some things that didn't make sense, like why none of their neighbors heard them screaming. And why the couple NEVER spent the night anywhere else. Having said that, I still believe that it was a VERY GOOD horror film. My wife and I are both 57 years old and we like horror films that create the fear in yourself like this one does (and also like the 1963 film "The Haunting" does). We saw the movie yesterday and we were spooked during the night! When the dvd comes out, there will definitely be people that won't be able to watch it alone.… Expand
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