Paranormal Activities (better late...)

So I saw Paranormal Activities... Four week ago. I'll give a quick right up of this one since it's not really relevant because it isn't in theaters any more.

Paranormal Activities (2009)
8/10

This was a very well made, low budget horror flick. The premise was what makes it work. A young couple of three years (Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat) moves in together and begins to experience "paranormal activities." As it turns out, Katie has been followed by a demon her entire life, something she failed to mention to Micah before moving in with him. Micah buys a camera to document the disturbances which gives us all the first hand footage for this film.

The simplicity is what makes this a scary film. There are no jump-out-and-grab-you type moments and no scare you by actually just grossing you out moments either. The effects are simple, but the reactions feel genuine. Everyone in this situation would be a little disturbed. Adding to the fright is that it all happens in their home (and mostly in the bedroom), the safe place where we go to not feel scared.

The movie paces itself well too. We are introduced bit by bit to the demon and then become more scared by him as he gets angrier and angrier. If only Micah would stop goading him on! As the climax approaches, we know how it will end, but it is still frightening.

I am normally not a fan of the Halloween, scary movies, but this one was a nice change of pace. I didn't have to worry about disturbing images of severed limbs and crushed skulls (save it for the video games, please) and the handheld camera didn't make me sick. As you watch the movie, pay attention to the relationship between Micah and Katie, particularly Micah's attitude and behavior. I think Micah may have been a bit jealous of the demon.