With the rise of the 1990s came a new wave of cinema that revolutionized the way movies were made. “Found footage” films, made popular by the groundbreaking success of The Blair Witch Project, paved the way for a different kind of storytelling on the big screen. This genre brought a fresh perspective to horror and suspense, captivating audiences in a whole new way.
In the wake of The Blair Witch Project’s success, the Paranormal Activity franchise and other similar films emerged, pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking even further. However, in recent years, a new format known as “screenlife” has begun to captivate audiences with its innovative storytelling techniques.
One notable example of a screenlife film is Unfriended, which recently celebrated its 11th anniversary since its release in April 17. This supernatural horror film, primarily told through a MacBook screen, was made on a modest budget of just $1 million but went on to gross over $62 million globally, according to Box Office Mojo. The film’s unique format and chilling narrative struck a chord with audiences, making it a standout in the world of screenlife cinema.
Unfriended follows a group of teenagers who are haunted by the ghost of a classmate who committed suicide a year prior. As the friends uncover dark secrets and lies through their online interactions, the tension escalates, creating a thrilling and suspenseful viewing experience. The film’s success not only led to a sequel, Unfriended: Dark Web, in 2018 but also solidified its place in the realm of innovative storytelling.
In a world where cookie-cutter films dominate the box office, Unfriended stands out as a bold and creative exploration of modern storytelling techniques. Its use of screenlife format not only sets it apart from traditional films but also reflects a growing trend in the industry towards more unconventional and immersive storytelling methods. As audiences continue to crave fresh and innovative content, films like Unfriended serve as a reminder of the endless possibilities that exist within the world of cinema.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.