If you’re a horror movie enthusiast, you’re probably aware of the various filmmaking techniques used to create spine-chilling and eerie movies. One such technique that has gained immense popularity in recent years is found footage, where the entire movie is shot through the lens of a video camera.
But do you know which horror movie was shot entirely on a video camera? Let’s find out!
Paranormal Activity: A Game-Changer in Horror Movies
Released in 2007, Paranormal Activity directed by Oren Peli was an instant hit among horror fans. What sets this movie apart from other horror movies is its unique filming style – entirely shot on a handheld video camera.
The film follows a young couple, Katie and Micah, who start experiencing paranormal activities in their house. To document these strange occurrences, Micah sets up a video camera in their bedroom to capture everything that happens while they sleep.
The Making of Paranormal Activity
The budget for Paranormal Activity was meager compared to other Hollywood movies but it managed to gross over $193 million worldwide, making it one of the most profitable movies ever made. The director Oren Peli used his own house as the setting for the movie and hired unknown actors to play the lead roles. The movie was shot over seven days using a single handheld video camera that cost only $500.
The Success of Found Footage Genre
After Paranormal Activity, many filmmakers started using found footage as a technique to make horror movies. Some notable examples include The Blair Witch Project, Cloverfield, and REC. However, none of them achieved the same success as Paranormal Activity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Paranormal Activity was a game-changer in the horror movie genre. Its unique filming style using a handheld video camera added to the realism of the movie and made it all the more terrifying. The film’s success also paved the way for other found footage movies, and we can expect many more to come in the future.
