Paranormal Activity
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: September 25, 2009
5.9
USER SCORE
Mixed or average reviews based on 702 Ratings
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Positive:
377
Mixed:
138
Negative:
187
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8
ALAMLEDPJan 21, 2023
Paranormal Activity, a found footage horror film, is an eerie and thrilling story about the demonic haunting of two students in San Diego. Despite its low budget of $15,000, the film was a box office success and it's not hard to see why.Paranormal Activity, a found footage horror film, is an eerie and thrilling story about the demonic haunting of two students in San Diego. Despite its low budget of $15,000, the film was a box office success and it's not hard to see why. Using a home video camera and filming in the director's own house, the film creates a sense of realism and believability that adds to the fear factor. The technical and creative restraints used in the film, such as using a cinecam and improvised script, adds to the feeling of a real-life documentary. The performances of the lead actors, Katie Featherston and Micah Sloat, are convincing and their chemistry adds to the realism of the film. Their relationship also becomes more interesting as the film goes on and adds to the thematic backbone of the film, which is about the balance of control. Overall, while the film isn't perfect, it's a strong entry into the found footage sub-genre and is best viewed with a group of friends.
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Paranormal Activity, una película de terror de metraje encontrado, es una historia espeluznante y emocionante sobre la persecución demoníaca de dos estudiantes en San Diego. A pesar de su bajo presupuesto de $15,000, la película fue un éxito de taquilla y no es difícil ver por qué. Usando una cámara de video casera y filmando en la propia casa del director, la película crea una sensación de realismo y credibilidad que se suma al factor miedo. Las restricciones técnicas y creativas utilizadas en la película, como el uso de una cámara de cine y un guión improvisado, se suman a la sensación de un documental de la vida real. Las actuaciones de los actores principales, Katie Featherston y Micah Sloat, son convincentes y su química se suma al realismo de la película. Su relación también se vuelve más interesante a medida que avanza la película y se suma a la columna vertebral temática de la película, que trata sobre el equilibrio del control. En general, aunque la película no es perfecta, es una entrada fuerte en el subgénero de metraje encontrado y se ve mejor con un grupo de amigos.… Expand
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7
Sosmooth1982Jan 7, 2023
Decent movie but could have better. They took to long for everything to start happening. They could have made it happen faster and also could have added more things happening to them, then what they showed. Otherwise just an ok movie.
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8
GiugiOct 3, 2022
First of the saga brought some innovation to the genre. Scary and very realistic given the mode of directing.
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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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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
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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
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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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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.
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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.
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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
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
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8
FilmMasterEdJan 5, 2016
When this dirt-cheap (that'd be $15,000) frightfest opened in late September for midnight showings in a dozen college towns, cynics laughed at its viral marketing campaign. Paramount Pictures asked interested parties to log on to a websiteWhen this dirt-cheap (that'd be $15,000) frightfest opened in late September for midnight showings in a dozen college towns, cynics laughed at its viral marketing campaign. Paramount Pictures asked interested parties to log on to a website and vote to get the flick into their towns. No one's laughing now. After a million-plus requests, Paranormal Activity is everywhere and raking it in ($34 million at last count). On a cost-profit basis, PA may be the year's most profitable.

What's all the excitement about? Oren Peli's movie from nowhere owes much to The Blair Witch Project, and, OK, suffers by comparison. But make no mistake, it will fry your nerves and creep you out big time without spending a dime on obvious special effects. The plot needs three sentences. Katie (Katie Featherston) and boyfriend Micah (Micah Sloat) are freaked out by noises in their San Diego home. To catch what's out there, he sets up a night-vision video camera while they sleep. We watch the found footage.

That's it. Over a period of about three weeks in the film, the tension builds and builds and builds until the dread ties your stomach in knots. No need to say more. If ghost stories have your number, this one will get you good, proving you don't need stars and computer mash-ups to make audiences shriek at things that go bump in the night.… 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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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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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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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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7
chwApr 23, 2015
Paranormal Activity was pretty good. As for the users, they are cliche. The movie, ironically (since it's a found footage kind of film) isn't. It's a very creepy movie (not as creepy as The Shining, though) and eerie tale, and also a good tale.
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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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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
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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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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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
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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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
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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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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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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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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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
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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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
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
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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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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8
LetzTalkMoveezOct 22, 2012
It's not really all that scary for a while; then it just becomes terrifying.
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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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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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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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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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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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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
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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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
davenbettridgeOct 17, 2011
The paranormal activity movies are not for everyone but I have enjoyed them and have appreciated its simple but effective film making. The characters aren't the best but I had fun with its approach to the folk lore of haunting demons and itsThe paranormal activity movies are not for everyone but I have enjoyed them and have appreciated its simple but effective film making. The characters aren't the best but I had fun with its approach to the folk lore of haunting demons and its effective use of spooks and scares. Many scenes are intense and effective and its film makers have managed to turn its low budget weaknesses into strengths.… Expand
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10
IAmPhongNguyenOct 16, 2011
Paranormal Activity is smart, scary, suspenseful and surprisingly funny! It builds up the big finish but along the way to it, there's a bit of "Oh, what the f**k!" or "Did that just happened?" This films proves that there's no need for anyParanormal Activity is smart, scary, suspenseful and surprisingly funny! It builds up the big finish but along the way to it, there's a bit of "Oh, what the f**k!" or "Did that just happened?" This films proves that there's no need for any horrid creature to be generated on computers but a creative story and your imagination. So, think of this as a rollercoaster ride!… Expand
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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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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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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
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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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
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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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
10
LarryWJan 23, 2010
If you need blood and CGI to scare you then don't see this movie. If you like minimalist horror in which your imagination provides the effect, you will love this movie
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
NoahDJan 22, 2010
I love scary movies...I mean i search everywhere for movies that actually give me nightmares. And most movies don't but this one did. I actually found myself sleeping with a nite lite. I heard the hype...but i don't ever listen or I love scary movies...I mean i search everywhere for movies that actually give me nightmares. And most movies don't but this one did. I actually found myself sleeping with a nite lite. I heard the hype...but i don't ever listen or believe it. I went into this movie with no knowledge of it except that it was supposed to be scary and it was. Imagination...imagination is what u need to get this movie. obviously those dorks who give the movie 3's and 0's have none and are forced to watch gore filled movies for a chill...personally gory movies only make me laugh...any how this is one of the scariest movies I've ever seen.Its a must see!… Expand
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9
SamHJan 17, 2010
This movie is scary. I don't care what people think. It is truly scary. It's not the typical, gory killer thrasher movie that we're used to. No, the scare of this movie is all psychological. The fear of some unknown being This movie is scary. I don't care what people think. It is truly scary. It's not the typical, gory killer thrasher movie that we're used to. No, the scare of this movie is all psychological. The fear of some unknown being lurking around haunting someone for years is the exact thing that scared me to death when I was a little girl. The fact that you can't see it makes the movie even scarier. The movie was made to look real, just like previous movies such as Cloverfield and Quarantine. Some believed it was real. And when it got out that it wasn't, I heard many people say it wasn't scary anymore. Now, I don't understand this. Why can't the movie itself be scary without it being real? It's also true that very few scary parts happen in the movie. This is to add to the fear of anticipating more things to happen, and goes on along with the underlying meaning of the movie plot. Plus, it adds to the real feeling of the movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PaulaD.Jan 11, 2010
Simply scary. And enjoying with an entire audience of theatre goers who jumped and screamed at the same time made it even more enjoyable and engrossing.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
KeithT.Jan 8, 2010
My daughter could not watch the ending.
1 of 1 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
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
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
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
7
WilliamC.Dec 29, 2009
Paranormal Activity: It
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
yorculpaDec 29, 2009
This movie relies on the viewer having a vivid imagination. It brilliantly conjures up fears that dwell within most or some of us. Not for those who like being spoon fed their stories. If you didn't like it, perhaps it's not the This movie relies on the viewer having a vivid imagination. It brilliantly conjures up fears that dwell within most or some of us. Not for those who like being spoon fed their stories. If you didn't like it, perhaps it's not the film that's boring.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JustinP.Dec 29, 2009
Anyone who gives this movie a bad rating was obviously scared bowelless from the film. I, myself haven't slept well since watching this.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GrantZDec 24, 2009
This, has to be one of the best horrors i've ever seen since Amusement. Its a true chiller, with bits that generally aren't expected. The film has to have the slowest 35 minutes at the start ever. However this all changes quickly, This, has to be one of the best horrors i've ever seen since Amusement. Its a true chiller, with bits that generally aren't expected. The film has to have the slowest 35 minutes at the start ever. However this all changes quickly, the spirits makes itself known and bloody hell is it scary. The film uses sound rather than jumpiness, in the version i watched nothing leapt out. The closest thing to jumping out was a shadow moving towards the screen. A benchmark in horror.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
SiebeVDec 15, 2009
I really think this is overhyped as a horror movie, it didn't scare me at all. the plot was really lame and there were some long boring parts in this movie. so you would think i´d give this movie a really bad rating. but the fact I really think this is overhyped as a horror movie, it didn't scare me at all. the plot was really lame and there were some long boring parts in this movie. so you would think i´d give this movie a really bad rating. but the fact of the matter is, that in this movie almost nothing happens. and it still manages to keep a severe tension on its audience, you keep waiting for something horrifying to happen even when there´s really nothing happening. the person who made this is a fucking genius, but as a movie to watch for a good scare not so much. its more like, a good example for actual horror movies to use sound better, and learn to build up tension.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
OliDec 14, 2009
It's definitely not the scariest movie ever made, but it works well at building suspense and keeping you on the edge of your seat.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JohnHDec 12, 2009
Let me summarize: If you liked Blair Witch and found it scary, you will find this scarier. If you didn't, this movie will be a joke. It takes the scariest bits of Blair Witch, improves on them, and reminds us that what you can't Let me summarize: If you liked Blair Witch and found it scary, you will find this scarier. If you didn't, this movie will be a joke. It takes the scariest bits of Blair Witch, improves on them, and reminds us that what you can't see is far scarier than what you can. I'll be honest, this was by far the scariest movie I have EVER seen. The acting and script was very realistic, and the low frequency ambience that fills the cinema is extremely effective. There is no blood, no gore, just suspense that builds up and up, and ends in a spectacular climax. The ending is not at all cheesy (A monster jumping at the camera actually works in a movie like this, because the camera actually exists), and will actually freak you out. No kidding.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesCDec 9, 2009
A fantastic film that manages to keep a huge amount of suspense throughout the the whole experience. People who are expecting things to jump out or massive amount of gore will not be happy but if a movie is designed to be scary and is then A fantastic film that manages to keep a huge amount of suspense throughout the the whole experience. People who are expecting things to jump out or massive amount of gore will not be happy but if a movie is designed to be scary and is then it is very successful.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KristianV.Dec 7, 2009
People have forgotten what a good horror movie is. Its not about gore, its not about jump scares, and its not about big psychos killing stupid teenagers. Horror is about atmosphere, suspense and a sense of terror. And this movie is terrific People have forgotten what a good horror movie is. Its not about gore, its not about jump scares, and its not about big psychos killing stupid teenagers. Horror is about atmosphere, suspense and a sense of terror. And this movie is terrific in all the important areas. The large majority of people that rate this movie negatively are simply expecting the wrong things.… Expand
0 of 0 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
9
guytNov 27, 2009
Considering it's low budget and cliche focus, paranormal activity really does deliver. Even sceptics will find it difficult not to get caught up in a truely terrifying flick. Even I found myself coming home and checking the net to see Considering it's low budget and cliche focus, paranormal activity really does deliver. Even sceptics will find it difficult not to get caught up in a truely terrifying flick. Even I found myself coming home and checking the net to see if the videos were real or fake! Not a film to watch at home, go to your local theatre bronto and get the atmosphere.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PrishNov 23, 2009
One of the best horror movies I have seen in a long time. Gems like this are what keep me coming back.
0 of 0 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
BrentMNov 16, 2009
Easily the scariest move I've ever seen. The best movie this year in my opinion, even if you don't get scared easily, this movie will make you terrified. The whole audience was shocked and this movie plays on your mind for days and Easily the scariest move I've ever seen. The best movie this year in my opinion, even if you don't get scared easily, this movie will make you terrified. The whole audience was shocked and this movie plays on your mind for days and even weeks. GO SEE IT IF YOU'RE LUCKY ENOUGH TO GET THE CHANCE TO.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DanielV.Nov 14, 2009
Not scary at all, but I enjoyed it.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
7
AdeCNov 13, 2009
I'm giving it a 7 for the fact that the marketing buzz succeeded in getting me to go see it in the first place. I think it was a lost opportunity, the "ordinariness" which made it so effective in the first forty five minutes slowly I'm giving it a 7 for the fact that the marketing buzz succeeded in getting me to go see it in the first place. I think it was a lost opportunity, the "ordinariness" which made it so effective in the first forty five minutes slowly weighs it down towards the end.… Expand
0 of 0 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
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
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
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
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
LarryE.Oct 31, 2009
This was the single most terrifying movie I have ever seen in my entire, I doubt I will ever be this scared ever again. Every single one of the "paranormal activities" scared me shitless. But on the other hand, it was also very funny, as This was the single most terrifying movie I have ever seen in my entire, I doubt I will ever be this scared ever again. Every single one of the "paranormal activities" scared me shitless. But on the other hand, it was also very funny, as Micah's sarcasm was very biting. But this movie... Wow. Just wow. Good luck sleeping after seeing this.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AndyROct 31, 2009
OK - it's true, if you don't like bobbled cameras and are looking for some straight-up gore, this is not the movie for you. But this was a GREAT movie, one of the best I've seen all year. My wife had her face covered for OK - it's true, if you don't like bobbled cameras and are looking for some straight-up gore, this is not the movie for you. But this was a GREAT movie, one of the best I've seen all year. My wife had her face covered for minutes at a time, out of sheer dread, overcome by the suspense. Our audience squealed and squeaked and screamed just like the ones in the commercials. The director does a wonderful job of slowly ratcheting up the tension. The lack of special effects - the lack of some goofy Stan Winston-esque monster - add to the queasy anticipation. You're forced to use your imagination to fill in the blanks. The actors - particularly Katie Featherstone - are natural and likable. Ultimately, I can understand why someone expecting a slasher flick might be disappointed. While this is definitely a horror flick, it's less Wes Craven and more Alfred Hitchcock, less James Cameron and more Ridlley Scott. At the very least, it's worth seeing so you can decide for yourself.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JeffreyOct 31, 2009
There are some long uneventful (read: boring) moments, but this does serve the movie when it's time for our protagonists to go to bed. You know something is about to happen... again. With dread, you wait for the next... scare is the There are some long uneventful (read: boring) moments, but this does serve the movie when it's time for our protagonists to go to bed. You know something is about to happen... again. With dread, you wait for the next... scare is the best way to put it. I don't scare easily. This movie made me jump several times and caused my skin to crawl long after I left the theater. In fact, it's been over a week now and I still feel like something is in the room watching me sleep. A great Halloween movie indeed!… Expand
0 of 0 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
Marc-AlexandreD.Oct 28, 2009
I had very high expectations (something I usually try to avoid because you end up disappointed 90% of the time) for this movie and I wasn't disappointed at all! It's awesome! I've seen over 1000 horror movies and Paranormal I had very high expectations (something I usually try to avoid because you end up disappointed 90% of the time) for this movie and I wasn't disappointed at all! It's awesome! I've seen over 1000 horror movies and Paranormal Activity is definitely one of the best I've seen (top 50)! It's not one of the best I've seen only because it's one of the scariest, it's also one of the most realistic and it's the movie I've always dreamed of! I've always wanted someone to make a realistic movie like The Blair Witch Project about a family or a couple filming in their house to catch ghosts and this movie has everything that I wanted! It's very suspenseful and it has some truly effective scenes! A lot of people say that it's boring and I really don't get it! It's WAY too suspenseful to be boring! I've been trying to understand why the people that thought that it was boring went to see it since it was released! Why does someone who get bored easily go see a movie about a couple filming in their house? While we're at it, why does someone expect to be scared in a theater full of people? The fact that there are idiotc teens that can't stop talking and laughing 90% of the time doesn't help. Personally, I can't imagine finding a movie scary with 30 persons around me. I thought the movie was scary (compared to most movies), but I watched it alone in the dark with an headset. The fact that I believe (or want to) in ghosts helped as well. Actually, I can't imagine someone who doesn't believe in ghosts finding a ghost movie scary. What makes ghost movies scary is the fact that maybe ghosts exist. Anyway, the first few minutes of the movie is the only time I didn't feel uneasy! The atmosphere was simply creepy! Hell, even a few parts with nothing but the couple talking were creepy! I guess it was the expectation that something really bad was going to happen. Anyway, when the movie was about to end I felt bad because I really didn't want it to end and any movie that makes me feel this way deserves 5 stars. I Can't wait for the DVD. PS: All of the people who call the people who like this movie sheeps are immature idiots. Just because you think a movie is bad doesn't mean that those who think it's good are sheeps or wrong or whatever stupid *beep* bigots love to come up with.… Expand
0 of 0 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
7
AlAOct 27, 2009
I would have given this movie a low rating it wasn't for the fact that I couldn't sleep after watching it. I mean if it doesn't scare you anyway than why call it a horror movie? The creepy late night bedroom ambience of the I would have given this movie a low rating it wasn't for the fact that I couldn't sleep after watching it. I mean if it doesn't scare you anyway than why call it a horror movie? The creepy late night bedroom ambience of the film is easliy transferrable to your own bedroom if you have a vivid imagination. A film like this is a good catalyst to creep yourself out late at night. It's not so much the movie I guess, but just how it can spark your morbid imagination. Less is more in this film. The problem with these fakely authentic films is that I always doubt the characters would continue filming everything. After awhile, in real-life, a real person would give up filming and get the hell out of there I think! This makes it hard to suspend your disbelief and suspension of disbelief is key in these type of films.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HaileyROct 26, 2009
A deeply disturbing movie. Slow to start, but well worth the wait.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
audreygOct 26, 2009
This movie is the Blair Witch Project of our time. Except this is actually good and scary.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KristieKOct 26, 2009
Truly scary! This is probably in my Top 20 list of scariest movies. The ending really is the best part and the creepy build-up to it really worked for me. The time lapse stuff with the female lead just standing for hours really creeped me Truly scary! This is probably in my Top 20 list of scariest movies. The ending really is the best part and the creepy build-up to it really worked for me. The time lapse stuff with the female lead just standing for hours really creeped me out and I had a hard time getting to bed that night! I do think people who watch this film will either "Love it" or "Hate it" with the same amount of passion because my husband left the theater with the exact opposite impression.… Expand
0 of 0 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
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