Behind the Scenes: The Making of As Above, So Below (2014)

In the realm of psychological horror, few films have managed to capture the essence of dread and suspense as effectively as "As Above, So Below." Released in 2014, this film takes viewers on a harrowing journey through the catacombs beneath Paris, blending found footage horror with psychological thriller elements. Let's delve behind the scenes to explore what makes this movie a standout in its genre.

Found Footage Horror

"As Above, So Below" masterfully employs the found footage technique to immerse viewers in its chilling narrative. This style, popularized by films like "The Blair Witch Project," uses handheld cameras to create a sense of realism and immediacy. The shaky camcorder footage and natural lighting enhance the film's authenticity, making the horrors feel more tangible. For instance, the claustrophobic scenes in the narrow catacomb tunnels are intensified by the use of handheld cameras, which capture the characters' panic and disorientation.

Critily's advanced search features can help you discover other found footage films that have left a mark on the genre, providing a comprehensive list of movies that utilize this technique to perfection.

Psychological Thriller Elements

The film excels in its psychological thriller elements, playing on the characters' fears and insecurities. As the protagonists venture deeper into the catacombs, they are confronted with their past sins and personal demons. This psychological torment is depicted through eerie visuals and unsettling audio cues, creating a sense of dread that permeates the film. For example, the character of Scarlett is haunted by visions of her deceased father, which not only adds depth to her character but also amplifies the horror.

As Above So Below Analysis

An analysis of "As Above, So Below" reveals a meticulously crafted narrative that blends historical facts with supernatural horror. The film's setting in the Paris catacombs, a real-life network of tunnels beneath the city, adds a layer of authenticity to the story. The catacombs serve as a metaphor for the characters' descent into their own subconscious minds, where they must confront their deepest fears and regrets. This duality of the physical and psychological journey is a key element that sets the film apart.

Critily's detailed movie analysis tools can provide further insights into the narrative structure and thematic elements of "As Above, So Below," helping you appreciate the film's intricate storytelling.

Cinematography Techniques

The cinematography in "As Above, So Below" is a character in itself. The use of tight, confined spaces and low lighting creates a sense of claustrophobia and unease. The camera work is particularly effective in the scenes where the characters are crawling through narrow tunnels, with the camera often positioned at awkward angles to emphasize the discomfort and tension. Additionally, the film employs a muted color palette, which enhances the grim and foreboding atmosphere of the catacombs.

Is As Above So Below Scary?

For those wondering if "As Above, So Below" is scary, the answer is a resounding yes. The film's ability to blend psychological horror with found footage techniques creates a uniquely terrifying experience. The slow build-up of tension, combined with sudden scares and unsettling imagery, ensures that viewers are kept on the edge of their seats. The film's exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the supernatural adds depth to the horror, making it more than just a series of jump scares.

Critily's user reviews and ratings can give you a better idea of how audiences have responded to the film's scare factor, providing a comprehensive overview of its impact on viewers.

Similar Films

• The Descent: A group of female adventurers become trapped in an unmapped cave system, where they encounter terrifying creatures.
• The Blair Witch Project: Three film students venture into the woods to document a local legend, only to encounter supernatural forces.
• Session 9: A psychological horror film set in an abandoned asylum, where a group of workers begin to experience strange and terrifying events.
• Grave Encounters: A reality TV crew filming in an abandoned psychiatric hospital encounter real ghosts and must fight to survive.

Movie Facts

• Fact 1: Release year & director: 2014, directed by John Erick Dowdle
• Fact 2: Lead actors & characters: Perdita Weeks as Scarlett Marlowe, Ben Feldman as George
• Fact 3: Production budget: Approximately $5 million
• Fact 4: Worldwide box office: Over $41 million
• Fact 5: Awards won/nominated: Nominated for several horror film awards, including the Fangoria Chainsaw Awards

Synopsis

• "As Above, So Below" follows Scarlett Marlowe, a brilliant archaeologist and alchemist, who ventures into the depths of the Paris catacombs to uncover the secrets of the Philosopher's Stone. Accompanied by a documentary filmmaker and a group of urban explorers, Scarlett soon realizes that the catacombs are not just a physical labyrinth but also a gateway to her own subconscious fears and sins. As the group descends deeper into the tunnels, they are confronted with terrifying visions and must face their own personal demons to escape.

Further Reading

• As Above, So Below: 2014 Supernatural Horror Film's Cast & Crew Adventure
• Descend Into Madness: 2014 Psychological Horror Adventure Streaming Now
• Exploring the Underground Maze Thriller: as Above, So Below (2014)

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