As Above, So Below (2014)

As Above, So Below is a 2014 American found footage horror thriller directed by John Erick Dowdle and co-written with his brother Drew Dowdle. The film revolves around a documentary film crew’s eerie exploration of the catacombs beneath Paris, which leads to terrifying and supernatural events. The story blends adventure, mystery, and horror, providing a gripping experience for its viewers.

The film follows Scarlett Marlowe, played by Perdita Weeks, a determined archaeologist searching for the Philosopher’s Stone, an ancient and powerful artifact. Along with a small group of explorers and a documentary crew, she descends into the dark and labyrinthine catacombs of Paris. The team hopes to uncover the long-lost secrets hidden within these underground tunnels, but what they find is far more terrifying than they expected.

As they venture deeper into the catacombs, strange and disturbing occurrences begin to unfold. The team encounters a series of supernatural and psychological horrors, as the catacombs seem to react to their fears and regrets. The film uses the found footage style to heighten the tension and realism, making the audience feel as though they are experiencing the horror firsthand. The narrow, claustrophobic tunnels add to the sense of dread and isolation, creating an atmosphere of constant unease.

One of the film’s strongest points is its exploration of personal demons. Each character is haunted by their past, and the catacombs seem to bring these fears to life. Scarlett, for example, is driven by the death of her father and her desire to prove herself. As the characters face their deepest fears, the line between reality and illusion becomes increasingly blurred, adding a psychological depth to the horror.

The film’s pacing is relentless, as it maintains a constant level of tension throughout. The limited setting of the catacombs creates an inescapable feeling, making the audience feel trapped with the characters. The sound design and cinematography are effective in amplifying the sense of dread, with the confined spaces and eerie visuals contributing to the atmosphere of fear.

In conclusion, As Above, So Below is a chilling and suspenseful horror film that successfully combines supernatural elements with psychological thrills. Its found footage style and claustrophobic setting make for an intense viewing experience. For fans of horror and thrillers, the film offers a unique and terrifying journey into the unknown, leaving viewers with a lasting sense of unease.