par⋅a⋅nor⋅mal –adjective of or pertaining to the claimed occurrence of an event or perception without scientific explanation

Release Date: October 2, 2009

Runtime: 1 hr. 39 min.

Rated: R (for language)

Genre: Horror/Suspense/Thriller

Cast: Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat

Director: Oren Peli

“What happens when you sleep?” is a very appropriate tag line for the newly released eerie supernatural thriller/horror movie “Paranormal Activity.” The documentary-style horror movie genre began with a little movie about some woods, lost kids, a witch, and nauseating shaky camera. I just can’t think of the title at this very moment…Very similar to that particular movie, Paranormal Activity relies on the audience’s immersion into the storyline and fear of the unknown.

The story begins with no opening credits, and what seems like home video of a blissfully happy couple, Katie and Micah. Micah has bought a video camera to document the recent unexplained events happening in the couple’s home. Mysterious thumps in the middle of the night, along with misplaced keys, and doors closing by themselves are among the various occurrences that begin to plague the happy couple. I have to admit; the first hour starts slow, but clearly displays a progression into the anxiety and ultimate climactic conclusion.

Little did we know, and soon discover; along with boyfriend Micah, that Katie has quite a frightening past that seems to be the focus of this unknown entity. Turns out, Katie confesses to (a very unrealistic and not believable) psychic/doctor that at 8 years old, she remembers seeing a dark figure looming and breathing heavily at the foot of her bed. This is where the metaphorical/metaphysical door is open. At the first site of the High8 camera auto-focusing on a Ouija board, the theater explodes in awe’s of disbelief and obvious disapproval. Even I know not to be messing with that thing! Ultimately, the “spirit board,” was never really used…well, at least not by Micah anyway.

Various types of activity occur that crescendo into an unexpected; but chilling conclusion. What director Oren Peli did right, was build this house of cards just right in order for you to see them tumble down in thrilling slow motion and in full night vision. Unlike recent horror movies that rely on shock and gore, won’t mention any names, but one comes out around this time every year for the past “VI,” years, Paranormal Activity has Alfred Hitchcock elements to it. Often times, it has us asking ourselves, “what’s just outside of the frame?” It’s what you DON’T see that makes it more appealing.

I have to admit, I have not had a good night’s sleep since I have seen this movie. The second to last night scene really did a number on me; and I don’t scare easily. Nothing in this movie seems forced (except Dr. Mark Fredrichs; the psychic, but I’m sure I’ve mentioned that before, right?), especially Katie’s performance. I highly recommend this film for anyone that does not have a pace-maker, has high blood pressure, is a small child that wets their pants on a frequent basis, anyone that is easily nauseated, or is afraid of the dark already. Anyone else is more than welcome to revel in the hype this movie has created and upheld. I leave you with two words: baby powder.

Official Trailer

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