This review might contain mild spoilers for the first 15 minutes of the movie or so.
I'll try to keep this short. If you're totally allergic to "found footage", shaky cam films, this probably isn't for you.
That said, it isn't your typical shaky cam flick either. It uses elements of found footage films, but it does so effectively and without relying on clichés. Sure, if you pick it apart piece by piece you will find a fair deal of the typical found footage tropes in some form or another, but they serve their purpose and aren't detracting attention from the story. Also the movie is, IMHO, shot very well and the cam isn't THAT shaky.
The thing I loved the most about this movie is the buildup, pacing, adventure and mystery. The main character is a Lara Croft-esque, light- hearted archaeologist who enjoys living on the edge, and, following in her deceased father's footsteps, is on the verge of discovering a hidden Philosopher's Stone. That's what the movie focuses on. There are scares, but it tries to rely on building tension and developing the story rather than cheap tricks and running around screaming.
At this point I have to say I was really unimpressed by Descent. It was a mediocre movie to me, focusing on jumps scares, grotesque and violence, and neglecting to tell any meaningful story. This movie, is the other way around. So, if you really loved Descent, and expect this to be like it, you might be disappointed (fewer direct "nerve-wrecking" action moments). On the other hand, if you like Indiana Jones and found footage / horror you should enjoy this as much as i have.
I'll try to keep this short. If you're totally allergic to "found footage", shaky cam films, this probably isn't for you.
That said, it isn't your typical shaky cam flick either. It uses elements of found footage films, but it does so effectively and without relying on clichés. Sure, if you pick it apart piece by piece you will find a fair deal of the typical found footage tropes in some form or another, but they serve their purpose and aren't detracting attention from the story. Also the movie is, IMHO, shot very well and the cam isn't THAT shaky.
The thing I loved the most about this movie is the buildup, pacing, adventure and mystery. The main character is a Lara Croft-esque, light- hearted archaeologist who enjoys living on the edge, and, following in her deceased father's footsteps, is on the verge of discovering a hidden Philosopher's Stone. That's what the movie focuses on. There are scares, but it tries to rely on building tension and developing the story rather than cheap tricks and running around screaming.
At this point I have to say I was really unimpressed by Descent. It was a mediocre movie to me, focusing on jumps scares, grotesque and violence, and neglecting to tell any meaningful story. This movie, is the other way around. So, if you really loved Descent, and expect this to be like it, you might be disappointed (fewer direct "nerve-wrecking" action moments). On the other hand, if you like Indiana Jones and found footage / horror you should enjoy this as much as i have.