Afflicted

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Under the Radar

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Here we have a relatively unique found footage film that still plays with the idea of the paranormal but actually attempts to expand it. This one is about the process of turning into a vampire, and all that comes with it.

One thing I'd like to bring up about this movie that makes it stand out pretty well among others are the two men behind it. This one is written by, directed by, and stars Derek Lee and Clif Prowse as themselves. While some could see this as about as egotistical and self-indulgent as something like 'The Room', I just find another brilliant found footage loophole. Simply put, if it's supposed to be found footage, it makes sense that they try to keep it as real as possible behind the scenes as well as in front of the camera.

This starts off as an online vlog, featuring Derek and Clif as they set off on their year-long trip around the world. Right from the get-go, Derek has a few health concerns, but he trusts that Clif has his back to help him see the trip through. However after a one night stand, Derek's health takes a scary but intriguing turn. While it seems very convincing that he's incredibly sick, he also starts showing signs of various heightened abilities. Then, eventually, the somewhat obvious comes to light as to what exactly happened.

All that said, I personally found it most interesting to see the twists and turns this movie took. There are at least a couple of moments through this where it sort of just pulls the rug out from under you. Otherwise, one would like this for the same reasons one would like 'Chronicle' (my personal favorite found footage film). It's kind of about superpowers and the somewhat realistic directions we might go with them. I always found it to be an awesome concept for found footage that's so unexplored. And yeah, we have movies that fit this concept already, but how many of these found footage movies are about ghosts and/or demons? I mean, I guess this is pretty damn close to demonic possession, but still.

I'm not sure if this one would necessarily make my Top 10 when it comes to found footage films, but it has a damn good shot at it. It's not really what would would call a straight up horror movie, but it's got a bunch of creepy moments, surprising moments, humorous moments, and I can't help but recommend it to anyone looking for a new sort of found footage movie. It can remain within that comfort zone of the supernatural, but strays away just enough. I really liked it, and I'm glad I added it to my list for this month.

4/5

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