Catacombes

I wasn't expecting much to be honest, as the whole found footage genre seems to have died a death, but this is surprisingly good. It begins in dramatic fashion, and for the most part doesn't let up, anyone that suffers with claustrophobia or a feeling of being trapped will appreciate the efforts of the film, or not. Some creepy scenes, I liked the part where the phone was ringing, that was atmospheric, as well as the push deeper into the cave. Perdita Weeks was excellent in the role.

This was rather good. 7/10

This movie does an outstanding job at doing what others have done time and time again, yet does it in a way that captivates you. It will either have you on the edge of your seat, or off to take a bathroom brake without pausing.

The opening scene of this movie is full of good intent but left me feeling confused. And not in the good way, but more in the way that makes you think that this movie is going to be just as bad as you expected.

The rest of the first half of this movie is extremely basic setup. It does absolutely nothing to innovate, captivate, or even make you care about who, what, when, why, where or how. Meet the characters, make them seem young and hip, and as always, convey that they are way out of their league.

All of this made me want to turn off my TV and call it a day. But i decided to stay and it was well worth my patience.

As soon as the characters enter the tombs, the movie picks right up. Making me feel like i'm stuck down there with them and all of their fears being exploited left me as a paranoid wreck through the rest of the film.

The movie isn't that scary, but more intense than anything.

The ending was well thought out and not cliché. It also left me wanting more movies that are written with this much thought.

First of all, there aren't a ton of good Horrors out there that are truly original. I'm not saying this movie is one of them, but that lack of originality shouldn't be the reason to give any movie a lower score. Bringing fresh ideas to the Horror genre is difficult, mostly because it's difficult to find new ways to scare people. There aren't a ton of moments that make you jump, but I think the genre isn't really about making people jump anymore. Audiences have gotten good at predicting when these moments happen.

Where this movie does well, along with the rest of my favorite horror movies, is atmosphere. For me, having a dark, creepy atmosphere is far more important to success in this genre than getting people to leap out of their seats. The shaky-cam, found-footage style isn't that much of an issue for me either. Actually, I think still does a good job portraying realism, despite being a bit disorienting and annoying.

Story-wise, I'd say it's pretty unique. How many other horrors involving descent into the earth to find historical relics can you think of off the top of your head? One, two maybe... How many horrors can you think of off the top of your head involving a haunted house, a possessed child or doll, exorcism, a guy with a mask, or a cabin in the woods? 100? Not to say this is bad, but I'll gladly welcome anything outside traditional horror settings and scenarios. It does dip into the realm of ridiculousness as some points, but nothing too over-the-top and far-fetched for the situation. The acting is good and the characters are believable for the most part. I would have cleaned up the final act a little bit more, but it was good enough to keep me satisfied.

Not sure what the critics are bashing it for. If there is anything to really complain about it's not this movie, but the genre itself. That being said, lower your expectations and you might like it. I'd give it a solid 7 out of 10.

As Above, So Below is a tense and claustrophobic found-footage horror film that effectively utilizes its haunting underground setting. Set in the Paris Catacombs, the film follows a group of explorers searching for the Philosopher's Stone, only to find themselves trapped in a psychological and supernatural nightmare.

Director John Erick Dowdle crafts an immersive and eerie experience, blending mythology, alchemy, and psychological horror in a way that sets this film apart from standard found-footage fare. The catacombs provide a naturally unsettling backdrop, and the film's sense of disorientation and paranoia builds steadily. While some moments fall into familiar horror tropes and the shaky camerawork can be disorienting, the film succeeds in creating a genuinely unsettling atmosphere.

With its unique setting and creative approach to horror, As Above, So Below is a suspenseful and intriguing ride that delivers more than just jump scares.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. A cool and different idea for a found footage movie involving a real place that is creepy as hell. Just a good movie that combines multiple elements to scare the audience. Solid flick.