Malibu Horror Story

While corporations pump out sequels and remakes galore, it's so refreshing to see something unique in cinemas these days. Malibu Horror Story offers plenty of creepy vibes from rookie writer/director Scott Slone. Granted, the runtime doesn't give the movie as many opportunities to really develop the characters as much as I would've liked to have seen and there are some horror tropes that kept it from feeling as fresh as it could be. But overall, if you're a fan of horror or found footage films, I think there's plenty to enjoy from MHS. So go and turn down the lights, grab a bowl of popcorn and hold on tight.

Mediocre horror movie made in 2023. I think those who gave very high scores in the comments watched another movie. Because many similar movies have been made. So it's not an original scenario. The acting is also very amateur. Directing is also mediocre. In other words, one cannot become a good director by taking a lot of inspiration from Exorcissist and Blair Witch movies.

A group of young people disappeared. Later, their cameras were found. Another group that goes to investigate the mystery of the incident encounters unexpected results.

It's a predictable story from the beginning until the end. Really waste of time. The first half is so sluggish that it bores the audience. The movie does not arouse curiosity. I was deceived by the score but prayed for it to end.

There is no sexuality or nudity in the movie.

I heard about this film because a friend of mine works for the company that will be distributing it. Saw it at Culver City Film Festival, where it was very well received. I am NOT a big horror movie fan, but occasionally enjoy a good one. This film was exceptional. A perfect blend of comedy and genuinely scary moments. Terrific cast and a unique twist on the found footage story. Great pacing that will keep you entertained and guessing throughout. After the movie, a guy in the theater said: "I usually don't like the endings of horror movies, but this one nailed it." Totally agree! Highly recommended.

It makes sense why Malibu Horror Story did so well on the festival circuit... the structure of this found footage film and reflexive storytelling devices utilizing news footage, a paranormal investigation crew investigating the missing teens, and the teens experiencing the monster/evil entity firsthand. The structure kept me guessing throughout each act and built up to an exciting and scary third act of the film. The writing and editing effectively string you along to make the ending even more terrifying than expected.

I hope people take the time to see this unique approach to horror in theaters!

I watched Malibu Horror Story (2023) in theaters last night. The storyline follows a group of Malibu high school friends who go missing in some historically mysterious hills in California. A tape from the hikers surfaces that a group that researches paranormal activity get their hands on. They set out for the hill to uncover what may have led to the teen's disappearance.

This movie is written and directed by Scott Slone (2001: An EDM Odyssey) and stars Dylan Sprayberry (Teen Wolf), Robert Bailey Jr (The Happening), Valentina de Angelis (As the World Turns) and Rebecca Forsythe (Replace).

This film had all the ingredients for a worthwhile found footage movie. The storyline was unique and unlike anything I'd seen before in the genre. The execution reminded me of a mix of The Blair Witch Project and The Descent. Most of the found footage shots were well done, creepy, and the creature was excellent, until they used CGI to show its transformation that included random CGI flames (which seemed unnecessary). The acting and depiction of the news, police, and other interviews were mediocre to bad. I didn't particularly like any of the docuseries elements. The kills in the movie are actually pretty good, but the ending falls short.

In conclusion, Malibu Horror Story contains some worthwhile elements that make it worth a watch for horror enthusiasts, but not enough to make it a good movie. I would rate this a 4/10 and recommend it only to die-hard fans of the horror genre.