10 Found Footage Horror Movies You Should See Before You Die

9. Paranormal Activity 3

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.