Afflicted

Afflicted is an intriguing fusion of found-footage horror, thriller, and supernatural genres. Released in 2013, this motion picture stars Clif Prowse, Derek Lee, and Michael Gill, among others, and tells a gripping tale that delves deep into the unknown, challenging our understanding of the supernatural world. Written and directed by Clif Prowse and Derek Lee, this movie stands as a testament to the potential of independent filmmaking coupled with thoughtful storytelling.

The storyline centers on lifelong friends Derek and Clif, who are also the real-life names of the actors, signifying the unique element of reality, adding a deeper sense of thrill and suspense to the narrative. The duo embarks on a trip around the world and decides to capture their entire journey through a blog, documenting every single moment of their ambitious global adventure.

The plot of Afflicted evolves as the friends traverse through various countries, where one of their stops lands them in France. Here, under mysterious circumstances, Derek encounters a woman who leaves him facing several inexplicable symptoms. This seemingly ordinary event throws a wrench into their plans, transforming their adventurous journey into a chilling and unsettling saga of survival. Suddenly, Derek begins exhibiting strange afflictions that alarm Clif, who can’t help but capture the unnerving changes taking place in his friend through his lens.

Derek’s condition rapidly deteriorates, and his body starts to develop alarmingly enhanced physical abilities, thrusting the two friends into an intense and chaotic situation. It becomes compellingly clear that he isn’t struggling with a simple illness, but something vastly more supernatural and perplexing.

While the friends continue their journey, they become increasingly desperate to understand what's happening. With Derek’s disturbing transformation taking the center stage, the duo uses their limited resources and the power of the Internet to dig into the depths of the unknown in search of answers.

One of the highlights of Afflicted is its impressive and creative usage of the found-footage format, which is central to the movie's ambiance and narrative style. This format provides an immersive experience by manufacturing a sense of realism that makes the viewers feel like they are part of the unfolding events rather than just mere witnesses.

The manifestations of Derek’s affliction are constructed and filmed in an exceedingly effective way. The viewer is filled with a mounting sense of dread and unease, watching as Derek shifts from an ordinary man to someone or something beyond human understanding. Yet, throughout the movie, there's a gripping ambiguity about the true nature of his condition, leaving viewers to question what’s happening and wrestle with their own theories.

Performances by the cast, particularly by the leading duo, are commendable. Clif Prowse and Derek Lee seamlessly transform from thrill-seeking adventurers to desperate men trying to decode a chilling mystery, making the viewers invested in their characters' journey. The supporting cast, including Michael Gill, adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

Afflicted keeps the viewers hooked with its engrossing plot, and even though it combines elements from various movie genres, it doesn't lose its unique identity. Its approach to the supernatural is innovative and effective, making for a captivating viewing experience that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll.

Tense, thrilling, and undeniably unsettling, Afflicted offers a contemporary twist to the found-footage genre, creating an unforgettable blend of adventure and horror. With an array of unexpected moments, the movie challenges audiences to question the boundaries of human abilities while exploiting our deepest fears of the unknown. The film holds onto its suspense and mystery tightly, taking the audience along for a ride that is both terrifying and emotionally-wrenching, inevitably leaving them eager for answers until the very end.

Whether you're a fan of found-footage films, supernatural thrillers, or just looking for a movie that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling, Afflicted is a hidden gem that's definitely worth a watch.