Hi all!

Today I am sharing my five favourite movies from the found footage genre. If you didn’t know, found footage is a cinematic technique, in which all, or a substantial part of the work, is presented as discovered film or video recordings. The events on screen are typically seen through the literal lens of one or more of the characters involved. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

1.) Creep 

You can currently find Creep on Netflix. It follows Aaron, a struggling videographer. One day, he answers a personalised ad, requiring him film a stranger in the countryside, wanting to make a movie for his unborn child. His client claims to be dying from an inoperable brain tumour. Therefore, he wishes to capture footage of himself, in case he passes away before the birth. At first, things appear relatively normal, but as the day progresses, the man’s requests become more bizarre. It isn’t long before Aaron realises he is in danger. As the title suggests, the antagonist is a bonafide creep. The tension and suspense alone, make this a worthy feature on my list. Not to mention, the ending. 

2.) The Taking of Deborah Logan 

I’ve mentioned this before, but I drew inspiration for my horror novella: The Devil Within Me, from The Taking of Deborah Logan. Set in Virginia, this movie follows a documentary crew, making a film on the impact of Alzheimer’s disease. Elderly woman, Deborah, offers to be interviewed and monitored over the course of several days. However, she displays more symptoms than just forgetfulness. The students soon realise demonic forces are also at play. This found footage feature is genuinely scary. Watching her devolve into a paranormal being, will get under your skin. I absolutely loved it from start to finish. That cave scene? Criminally underrated!

3.) Dashcam 

Dashcam is a unique experience. Be warned, this film is not for everyone. It follows Annie Hardy, a right-wing internet personality, who live streams/raps from her car for views. Frustrated by the COVID-19 restrictions in Los Angeles, she travels to London to reunite with a former bandmate. Annie is extremely obnoxious; firmly against wearing masks, with no concept of personal boundaries. One evening, she is given the opportunity to transport a homeless woman in her car, for a large sum of money. However, her passenger possesses paranormal abilities and she spends the rest of the night, trying to survive. Despite the high-stakes situation, she continues to film the events for her followers. You will get to the end and ask yourself “what did I just watch?” It is a highly chaotic, fast-paced and entertaining wild ride. Even if you can’t stand Annie, you cannot deny she has a magnetic personality. Definitely stick around for the credits. It’s a fun time!

4.) Incantation 

Incantation is the newest addition on this list. This Taiwanese horror follows Ronan, a former mental hospital patient, believing she was cursed from an event that happened in her past. Due to her fragile state of mind, she placed her baby in a foster home. Six years later, she is discharged, adopts her daughter and brings her home. However, the minute they are reunited, strange and terrible things begin to happen. Ronan decides to film their experiences together, giving way to plenty of paranormal activity captured on camera. In a series of flashbacks, viewers get some insight into how the curse initially unfolded. There were some truly unsettling scenes in this movie. It hits even harder if you’re a parent. I highly recommend it. 

5.) The Visit 

Last, but certainly not least, we have The Visit. This is my favourite found footage film on this list. It reminded me of The Folcroft Ghosts by Darcy Coates. Check out my ranking of her entire works here. Becca and Tyler plan a week-long stay at their grandparents’ place, whom they have never met. Little do they know, their visit will be the most terrifying experience of their lives. The kids are definitely the best part of the story. They are sassy, funny and intelligent. Furthermore, the scares are extremely effective. There is a under-the-house chase scene, that deeply disturbed me. The grandchildren use their phones to capture strange behaviour during their time away. There is a great twist at the end, with plenty of suspense to keep you interested.

Thank you so much for reading! What are some of your favourite found footage movies? 

Peace & Love xoxo