10 Found Footage Horror Movies You Should See Before You Die

9. Paranormal Activity 3

Tim Paranormal Activity 3
Universal Pictures

Paranormal Activity is of course one of the biggest names in found footage, but which entries in the franchise are the real deal, and which haven't stood the test of time?

While the first is the most influential, it's also a touch tame by today's standards, and the limitations of its budget are on full display. It's still decently effective, but Paranormal Activity 3 builds on the foundations of the first two flicks and adds in novel new scare tactics and an interesting period setting.

Bigger, of course, isn't always better, but unlike other sequels PA3 uses its increased budget and studio backing to attempt something different. As a prequel, it fills in the blanks of Katie's story more explicitly than the other efforts, diving into classic horror conventions of cults and compromised parents in the process.

Its climax as well is one of the best in the series, paying off the building dread in a terrifying way. If the franchise had ended here, it would have been a high note to go out on.

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Josh has over 11 years of experience as a published writer, having worked nine of those years as a full-time content producer at WhatCulture. In that period he has created hundreds of articles, videos and podcast episodes for multiple WhatCulture channels, specialising in gaming, horror and film & TV. He now primarily works as a senior content producer and presenter on WhatCulture Gaming where he co-hosts the WhatCulture Gaming Podcast, a top 3 UK most listened to gaming podcast that he co-created in 2018. Over the years he has reviewed several high-profile gaming releases, covered industry events with on-site reporting, opined on breaking news, and even kicked off his interviewing career by chatting to childhood hero, Tommy Wiseau.