Unfriended

Unfriended succeeds where many other modern horror movies fail, and that is, it is actually scary. The trailers show you that the movie takes place entirely on a computer screen, and while this is definitely a gimmick, it's a gimmick that works. When making a horror movie, execution is the crucial aspect in making an effective film. Regardless of how unique or generic a concept may be, the filmmakers have to use this idea to their advantage, and Unfriended is able to do that. There are many things the film does to build up scares, using the computer screen to its advantage. Admittedly, the movie feels very distant at the beginning, much the same as if you were be trying to watch a TV from far away. But as the movie plays out, this goes away, and you actually start to feel like you are part of the action; and the limited view from the computer screen actually makes the scares more effective. As a horror flick, Unfriended is very, very competent. However, looking at it as a movie in general displays some of its shortcomings. Not all of the acting is great, and like any horror movie, you find yourself thinking towards the characters "come on guys! Why'd you decide to do/say that? " The ending will also be very divisive for audiences; initially I thought it was effective, but upon further reflection, I don't think it did the movie justice. While Unfriended certainly isn't a perfect movie, it's an effective one, and is also quite entertaining throughout the entirety of its short run time (it's important to note that when I say it's an entertaining movie, I mean for fans of the genre. If you hate horror, this isn't going to change your mind) With an interesting premise, capable execution, and real tension that builds up to the scares, this movie strives for real horror, but does occasionally fall back on cheap (admittedly effective) jump scares. I wouldn't call myself a horror fan, but there have been a few horror movies I have enjoyed, and Unfriended is able to fit into that small category "horror movies I can recommend".