10 Found Footage Documentaries That Uncover Hidden Truths

Description: Although often categorized as a horror film, it's also a documentary-style exploration of the myth of the Blair Witch, using footage supposedly found after the disappearance of three student filmmakers.

Fact: The film was initially marketed as a true story, leading many to believe the events were real. The actors were paid $1,000 for their work, but after the film's success, they received additional compensation.

Description: A Spanish film where a reporter and her cameraman follow firefighters into an apartment building, capturing a terrifying outbreak of a mysterious disease.

Fact: The film was shot in a real apartment building to enhance the realism. It was remade in the U.S. as "Quarantine" but the original Spanish version is often considered superior.

Description: While primarily a monster movie, it's presented as found footage from a camera left behind after a monster attack on New York City.

Fact: The film was initially a secret project by J.J. Abrams, with the title "Slusho!" during production. The marketing campaign was innovative, using viral marketing to build intrigue.

Description: This film uses the found footage technique to document the paranormal experiences of a couple, with the camera left running to capture unexplained events in their home.

Fact: The film was made for only $15,000 and grossed over $193 million worldwide. It was initially rejected by several studios before being picked up by Oren Peli.

Description: A documentary crew follows a pastor who performs what he claims will be his final exorcism, only to uncover something far more sinister than expected.

Fact: The film was inspired by the documentary "A Question of Miracles" which follows a priest performing exorcisms. It was well-received for its blend of documentary style with horror elements.

Description: This film uses found footage to document a small town's water supply being contaminated, leading to horrific consequences for its residents.

Fact: Barry Levinson, known for mainstream films, directed this found footage horror, showcasing his versatility. The film uses a mix of news footage, home videos, and webcam recordings.

Description: A videographer answers an online ad to film a day in the life of a man who turns out to be far more than he seems, with the footage later found after his disappearance.

Fact: The film was shot in just 13 days with a small crew, and Mark Duplass improvised much of his dialogue, adding to the film's raw, documentary-like feel.

Description: A documentary crew filming a woman with Alzheimer's disease captures disturbing events that suggest something more than just dementia is at play.

Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of Alzheimer's, making the horror elements even more chilling. It was shot in a found footage style to add to the documentary feel.

Description: This Australian film explores the aftermath of a young girl's death, using footage that her family finds, which reveals more than they bargained for about her life and death.

Fact: Despite its low budget, the film has gained a cult following for its realistic portrayal of grief and the supernatural. It was shot in a documentary style to enhance the realism.

Description: This film presents itself as a documentary about a serial killer's tapes found by police, offering a chilling insight into his mind and methods.

Fact: The film was shelved for years due to its disturbing content, only being released officially in