Jan
19
It was always a dead cert that Paranormal Activity, a low budget fright-fest that struck box office gold, would get the nod for a sequel. This has indeed transpired, and recently it was announced that Saw VI helmer Kevin Greutert is the man to direct this follow-up. However, what’s most surprising is the way in which this sequel is being constructed. For, not only does Paramount’s newest cash cow have Greutert at the helm, and away from the splatter franchise he was just getting accustomed to, but it has also swiped Lionsgate’s release date of 22 October. A little bit of healthy competition never hurt, but I suspect that there are plans afoot to turn Oren Peli’s idea into some kind of Saw-esque money-spinner.
The original Saw was a breath of fresh air – a dank, dark cult hit with a killer payoff. The sequels, however, have been released in methodical fashion, every year, each displaying a disintegration in quality. As it stands the franchise is at an all time low; the latest entry in the horror saga, 2009’s Saw VI racked up $31 million worldwide – paltry compared to 2008’s Saw V, which moped up with a total gross of $113.8 million – and was a critical failure. Up against Paranormal Activity 2 on the aforementioned date, it’s not unfair to say that Saw VII could well be the last time we see Jigsaw croak. In its place will be a new ghostly franchise, built on the success of its originator but – probably – lacking in creativity or direction with every instalment. Sound familiar?
If you disagree with this, look no further than The Blair Witch Project. This film made the mega bucks, spawned a dire sequel and has since become a latent franchise. At best Paranormal Activity as a film series can enjoy this fate, and be spared the endless procession of un-scary and uninspired sequels.
If you feel like commenting on this blog, wail like a banshee on the comments thread below.
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Loved the original Paranormal Activity, so I hope they only do one sequel and leave it at that, but I see what you mean. However, if Saw VII is the last one, I’m fine with that. I’ve enjoyed most of the Saw films for what they are, and Blair Witch 2 was not nearly as bad as people say it is. I hear Blair Witch 3 is happening… I sure hope it’s a prequel though and tell the origins of the Witch… Make her a creeping menace all the way through to the final reveal – don’t show her all the way through!
I think that Paranormal Activity was the dumbest movie ever. I wish I could get back the $20 that was spent to go see it. I WILL NOT go see Paranormal Activity 2. I will be going to see SAW VII In 3D and Saw VIII and if it comes to that SAW IX and X. I think that enough is eniugh with Paranormal Activity it was not scary. Paranormal Activity STINKS DONT GO SEE IT SAVE YOUR MONEY AND SEE ANYTHING ELSE. I hear Saw VII will be good. Think about.