Day Nineteen - Paranormal Activity (2009)

I saw a screener of the early version of Paranormal Activity before the ending was changed, so I can't very well vouch for how terrifying the theatrical version is, but from what I hear of the new ending I'm glad I saw the version I did. The film is a "found footage" affair along the lines of The Blair Witch Project, but instead of witch-hunting this young couple is trying to capture an image of the demon they believe is haunting their house. The leads are believable for the most part and when it's daylight and they're going about their business the audience feels safe. It's when the lights go out and the camera is placed on a tripod in the bedroom that really pays off. Exceedingly creepy in these moments, the filmmaker builds dread as the counter in the corner of the screen speeds up and then suddenly starts ticking normally. It's then that we know some shit's about to happen, and our not knowing exactly what might take place is where this film gets all its power. From ghostly footprints to slamming doors to the female lead standing motionless beside the bed for hours, these moments are extremely tense.
As far as the original ending goes; it's quite effective. I won't spoil it for anyone who may see this version in the future, but it keeps things as believable as possible and does not involve anybody's face taking on demonic features. There's no jump out of your seat scare to cap it all off. It keeps things believable and mysterious which is what made the movie work up until that point. Now, I haven't seen the theatrical cut, but I have read a description just to compare and it sounds as if the new ending almost betrays the whole approach the movie was taking up until that moment. I'm glad I saw the original ending and I hope it's available in this version on the eventual DVD.