Found footage horror has many flavors, much like every other subgenre in horror. Yes, found footage doesn't work for everyone, but there are plenty of films to check out. People often recommend the more well-known found footage horror films like The Blair Witch Project, Unfriended, The Visit, and occasionally Hell House LLC (which has grown in popularity over the years). But recommending the films that nobody talks about or don't regard super highly is sometimes the mode.
There are plenty of titles out there that didn't get a wide distribution, got lost in the shuffle, or received the type of reception that makes people avoid it at all costs. Though if you consider yourself a horror fan or a burgeoning horror fan that wishes to expand your palette, you'll find this list somewhat helpful. Some of these found footage horror films might make you shake your fist at me. Regardless, you might find a gem amongst this pile of found footage chaos.
Keep reading to see if these films are some you've never heard of or simply haven't seen yet. And make sure you keep your phone charged, just in case you need to record your own adventure.
The Poughkeepsie Tapes (2007)

When a found footage film is filmed in a way that's all too realistic, that's when things can get uncomfortable. The Poughkeepsie Tapes is filmed like a documentary and is about an incredibly deranged serial killer. The tapes that the killer filmed of his victims are…very bizarre and the imagery will stick with you. There's no doubt that plenty of horror fans have been warned about this film. And while it might be a little more than mildly disturbing to some, but it's effective in what's it trying to achieve.
Megan is Missing (2011)

People love to hate on Megan is Missing, but what they can't say is that quite a number of scenes in this film aren't haunting. The film follows Amy Herman (Amber Perkins) who looks into the disappearance of her best friend, Megan (Rachel Quinn). Megan is Missing is low budget and the acting might seem amateur, but there's an authenticity to how inexperienced teenagers are. Not to mention the discussion surrounding online predators and the dangers of the internet. It's difficult to fully recommend this because the third act is brutal, but it might be worth at least one watch.
Evidence (2011)

Pure chaos are two words that describe the shift that happens during Evidence. The film follows some friends who go on a camping trip, and it turns deadly when something starts hunting them. There's nothing all that special about Evidence, but the shift in tone might work for some people. Not to mention, the descent into full-blown chaos is eye widening upon first watch. Evidence is a found footage horror film to throw on for mindless watching.
The Tunnel (2011)

Slow building to the danger doesn't always work for found footage, but The Tunnel gets the job done. The film follows a journalist who brings her crew down to what are revealed to be dangerous abandoned tunnels in Sydney. The Tunnel takes its time, making the audience, as well as the characters, extremely paranoid until the monster makes its presence known. And it's extremely effective in what it aims to do in that respect. It's well worth the watch if you consider yourself a fan of monster horror films.
The House with 100 Eyes (2013)

It's nothing special, and it's cheaply made, but The House with 100 Eyes is deeply deranged. The film follows a serial killer couple who make snuff films as part of their relationship. It's film in a way that feel increasingly realistic because of the amateur recording. The House with 100 Eyes isn't doing anything revolutionary as a found footage featuring serial killers. But if you're looking for a grimy found footage horror film, then look no further.
The Den (2013)

There are some found footage horror films that are incredibly underrated, and The Den is one of them. The film follows a college student who finds herself dealing with dangerous people from the internet. Yes, it's absolutely a horror film about the dangers of the internet. But it's also a delightfully uncomfortable ride featuring scares, blood, and a very gruesome finale. If you want to be paranoid to go on webcam based sites, watch The Den.
The Borderlands (or Final Prayer) (2013)

A horrifying conclusion is what Final Prayer comes to, and you'll never forget it. The film follows a religious man and a technological expert who are investigating strange happenings, only to discover something more horrifying. Final Prayer isn't all that it seems, and that works in its favor as the film goes on. And when you finally reach the end, you'll be wishing it was a classic haunting. The film works for anyone who is interested in being shocked by an ending.
As Above, So Below (2014)

Interested in a found footage horror film that has a cult following? As Above, So Below will scratch that eternal itch. The film follows a documentary crew who venture into the Paris catacombs and uncover more than they were prepared for. Does As Above, So Below shake the table as far as found footage tropes? No. However, it's still a great viewing experience and is worthy of several rewatches.
Godforsaken (2020)

A town descending into total disaster? Godforsaken checks that box. The film follows a documentary crew whose visit to one of the members' hometown has disturbing consequences. There's something incredibly eerie about the seemingly isolated location, and it's a change of pace with it being filmed in Ontario. When Godforsaken takes that sharp turn to the left, it's stressful but perfect for found footage lovers. It's absolutely worth checking out, especially if you're looking for something weird.
#ChadGetsTheAxe (2022)

Fun found footage horror with plenty of scares is sometimes the vibe, right? #ChadGetsTheAxe follows a group of influencers who stream at a seemingly abandoned house where ritualistic murders took place. Everything goes extremely downhill when they realize they're not alone. It's a fun look into how many influencers would act under these circumstances, and it's equal parts scary and hilarious. #ChadGetsTheAxe is perfect for a night of fun with characters that you'll probably roll your eyes at.
Find out where to watch these films by visiting JustWatch.
I've been seeing Megan Is Missing pop up on my feed a lot lately... Despite all the negativity surrounding it, your recommendation may be enough to get me to actually give it a shot.
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