This 90% Fresh Gem Is the Only Found Footage Horror You Should Watch This Halloween
This movie takes a simple yet powerful concept, places it in the perfect format and doesn't give the viewer a second to breathe.
When it comes to found-footage horror films, many people think of The Blair Witch Project or Paranormal Activity.
However, the 2007 Spanish movie Rec perfected this formula, setting a new standard for the subgenre and establishing itself as a model zombie horror.
If you're looking for the perfect scary flick this Halloween, look no further.
What Is 'Rec' About?
The ambitious TV journalist Ángela and her cameraman Pablo are filming a report about the daily life of a fire brigade. One night, they respond to a call at an ordinary residential building where an elderly woman has barricaded herself in her apartment.
The situation seems routine until it becomes clear that a highly contagious and unknown virus is spreading through the building, turning people into bloodthirsty monsters. The authorities urgently impose a quarantine, sealing off all exits.
Trapped with the infected, Ángela and Pablo continue filming in an attempt to survive and reveal the truth to their viewers.
'Rec' Was the First to Combine Zombie Horror With the Found Footage Subgenre
Directors Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza revolutionized the genre of zombie horror by combining it with found footage.
They amplified the key elements of zombie horror – isolation and the rapid spread of the threat – to the max using the found footage format.
The shaky camera, realistic reactions, and complete lack of background music create an immersive experience that makes viewers feel like they are trapped in the building with the characters.
Rec set a new standard for such films, proving that the format can be a powerful artistic tool, not just a budget gimmick.
18 Years Later, 'Rec' Is Still One of the Best Found Footage Horror Movies Ever Made
Despite the passage of time and many imitators, Rec remains one of the most effective and terrifying films in the genre.
Its success was so resounding that it spawned an entire franchise and was quickly remade in Hollywood. As is often the case, however, the first film remains an unreachable classic.
The secret to Rec's success lies in its perfect balance. It doesn't just startle viewers with jump scares – it methodically builds claustrophobic terror, forcing viewers to breathe in unison with the characters.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Rec'?
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Rec has 90% from critics and 82% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the horror movie has a score of 7.4/10.
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On Letterboxd, Rec is scored 3.7/5.0.
Where to Watch 'Rec'?
Rec is available to stream on AMC+ and Shudder.
