Hi all!
Today I am back to rank and discuss all of the movies I watched during Found Footage February! If you would like to learn more about this event, please click here. I saw 12 films in total, which was a great success. The only one I didn’t get to was The Bay and that was because I couldn’t find an available copy anywhere. Without further ado, from best to worst, here is my ranking!
1.) As Above, So Below
The best movie I watched for Found Footage February was As Above, So Below. I felt like it was made for me. Picture Indiana Jones meets Tomb Raider meets horror. Set within the actual Parisian Catacombs, this film left no crumbs. It was claustrophobic, terrifying, adventurous, exciting and surprisingly heart-warming. I couldn’t fault it. If you only watch one feature on this list, let it be this one.
I gave it 5/5 stars.
2.) The Gallows
In second place, we have The Gallows. This film had all the makings of a great found footage story. The best part was its unique concept. I had never seen another horror movie about a school production before. I thought it was perfectly paced, full of tension, provided a shocking twist at the end, great scares and interesting characters. I truly loved every moment of it.
I gave it 5/5 stars.
3.) Lake Mungo
For an Australian found footage film, this one really impressed me. Yes, it was slightly slow paced but the chilling twist at the end had me completely unravelled. I felt like the underlying message was very strong: when your time is up, it’s up.
I gave it 4/5 stars.
4.) Grave Encounters
Grave Encounters wasn’t anything ground-breaking or new, but it was a whole lot of fun. The monster special effects were next level and the scares, chef’s kiss! The team were so insufferable in the beginning, making the payoff that much sweeter when the hauntings started to take place. I would liken this movie to the American version of Gonjiam Haunted Asylum.
I gave it 4/5 stars.
5.) Quarantine
Quarantine was literally the American version of Rec. Scene for scene, line for line. It was practically identical. Not to be negative, but I wish I had picked a different movie to watch, as I had already seen its predecessor. Jennifer Carpenter gave an outstanding performance as Angela Vidal. A great and authentic adaptation.
I gave it 4/5 stars.
6.) Creep 2
More Creep movies please! They are pure fun. I definitely preferred the first film in the duology, but I still enjoyed the sequel. The main character was so entertaining to watch. He really is, for all intents and purposes, a creep. I wish it had been paced a bit better and we saw more action but overall, a thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience.
I gave it 3.5/5 stars,
7.) The Houses October Built
Wow, this film was intense and scary! It had me on the edge of my seat. I am yet to watch the sequel, so please let me know if it is worth checking out. It wouldn’t surprise me if there were real haunted attractions like this scattered across America. As a slight critique, I found the beginning dragged quite a bit. The second act was where it all happened. I recommend playing it during Halloween season.
I gave it 3.5/5 stars.
8.) Afflicted
Afflicted was a hidden gem I’m glad I discovered. It had a great concept and some fantastic body horror/special effects. If you’re quite sensitive, I would probably skip this one. Some of the visuals may make your stomach turn. My main issue was that it went in a direction I was not expecting, nor satisfied with. I could absolutely see this film turning into a franchise.
I gave it 3.5/5 stars.
9.) Cloverfield
Cloverfield is probably the most well-known, found footage movie on this list. I want to preface by saying it’s not typically my thing, but it was very well-done for what it was. The special effects were outstanding. I also really enjoyed the cast and found myself becoming invested in the story. If you’re new to this sub-genre of horror, I would recommend checking this one out.
I gave it 3.5/5 stars.
10.) Unfriended: Dark Web
After reading several reviews, I expected Unfriended: Dark Web to be the worst movie on my list. It actually wasn’t that bad. I 100% preferred the first film but the sequel held its own, branching away from supernatural elements and grounding itself in the horrors of reality. I don’t think I need to caution readers about the dangers of the darkest part of the Internet.
I gave it 3/5 stars.
11.) The Poughkeepsie Tapes
I’ve seen a lot of messed up stuff in my time. It comes with the territory of being a horror aficionado. However, The Poughkeepsie Tapes was too much, even for me. Once children are involved, I’m out. I also felt that the film was quite repetitive and lacking substance. I would never recommend it, nor watch it again.
I gave it 2.5/5 stars.
12.) Grave Encounters 2
In last place, we have Grave Encounters 2. I wanted to like the sequel. I had heard excellent things about it. Unfortunately, the action did not begin until 40 minutes into the movie. By the time they reached the asylum, I didn’t care anymore. This film needed editing and better pacing. It was a massive let-down.
I gave it 2.5/5 stars.
Thank you so much for reading! How would you rank this list? What is your favourite out of the films mentioned?
Peace & Love xoxo