Movies

Top 6 Found Footage Horrors Better Than Their Blair Witch Project Parent

Top 6 Found Footage Horrors Better Than Their Blair Witch Project Parent
Image credit: 20th Century Studios

The early 2010s were a staple of found footage filmmaking.

While The Blair Witch Project may have laid the groundwork for found footage horror, there are a number of films that have managed to elevate the genre even further over the years.

Here are 6 found-footage horror films that clearly outshine their Blair Witch parent.

6. Unfriended (2014)

Using a unique screen capture format, Unfriended takes a deep dive into the terrifying consequences of cyberbullying. The story unfolds on the screen of a teenage girl's computer as she and her friends are haunted by a sinister presence. This innovative approach creates a chilling and suspenseful experience by blending horror with modern technology.

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5. Creep (2014)

Patrick Brice's directorial debut, Creep takes the found footage concept to disturbing new depths. The movie follows a videographer who is hired to document the life of a man, only to discover that the intentions of his subject are far more sinister than they first appear.

The film expertly uses jump scares, suspenseful sequences, and uncomfortable dialogue to create a chilling experience, with the narrative driven by the outstanding performance of the lead creep.

4. As Above, So Below (2014)

This 2014 film combines horror and adventure. It tells the story of a group of explorers who descend into the catacombs beneath Paris in search of hidden treasure. Blending elements of supernatural terror with historical mystery, the film effectively uses its claustrophobic setting to create an atmosphere of dread.

3. Chronicle (2012)

While Chronicle is a combination of the found footage style and the superhero genre, its influence on the horror scene is undeniable. The movie explores the darker side of superhuman abilities as three friends come to terms with their newfound powers, which lead to tragic consequences.

With stunning visuals and strong performances from Dan DeHaan and Michael B. Jordan, the film is a fresh take on the found-footage genre.

2. [REC] (2007)

This Spanish horror film takes the found footage concept and turns it into a heart-pounding nightmare of a movie. Following a TV reporter and her crew documenting a fire station night shift, the interview quickly devolves into chaos when a viral outbreak turns residents into violent zombies.

1. V/H/S (2012)

V/H/S is an anthology of found footage shorts by various filmmakers that mimic the aesthetics of VHS tapes. This collection of films explores a variety of sub-genres, from the supernatural to psychological horror, resulting in a diverse and immersive experience that has spawned sequels, with the first installment standing out as the strongest in the series.

What do you think of found-footage horrors?