As Above, So Below

As Above, So Below is an intriguing psychological horror film released in 2014, produced by Legendary Pictures and distributed by Universal Pictures. The film is directed by John Erick Dowdle, renowned for his work in the horror genre and co-written by him and his brother Drew Dowdle. The enticing narrative is presented in a found footage style that adds an extra layer of realism and suspense to the plot.

At the centre of this chilling tale is the charismatic and tenacious archaeology scholar, Scarlet Marlowe, brilliantly portrayed by British actress Perdita Weeks. Scarlet, fueled by the determination to finish her deceased father's work, embarks on a journey to find the fabled Philosopher's Stone, which is believed to grant eternal life and turn any metal into pure gold. Her expertise on the subject matter and knowledge of ancient symbols and hidden secrets is a pivotal part of the narrative.

As the plot unfurls, the audience is introduced to George (Ben Feldman), a troubled but intelligent archaeologist who is prone to claustrophobia. Despite his initial hesitance, he is drawn into Scarlet's daring quest due to their shared history.

The film primarily takes place in Paris, more specifically, underneath it, in the claustrophobic confines of the legendary catacombs that stretch hundreds of miles beneath the city. The catacombs, infamous for harboring the remains of over six million people, provide a mysterious and unsettling backdrop to the narrative.

Scarlet and George are further accompanied by a documentary filmmaker named Benji, played by Edwin Hodge, whose camera captures their expedition, lending a documentary feel to the movie. They are joined by a trio of French urban explorers who are familiar with navigating the catacombs but are unaware of the terror that lies far below in the forgotten sections of the labyrinth.

As Above, So Below is not a simple tale of treasure hunting. It is an intense psychological journey which delves deep into the human psyche. As the group ventures deeper into the catacombs, they soon begin to realize that they are not only exploring physical depths but are being subjected to a metaphysical journey representative of their worst fears, past errors and unresolved traumas. The catacombs slowly morph into a living, breathing embodiment of their darkest secrets; each new frightening turn of the maze reflects the inner demons that haunt the characters.

The camera work in As Above, So Below contributes to the unnerving atmosphere. The movie heavily relies on the first-person perspective which immensely enhances the genuine feeling of claustrophobia and unease. It is through this perspective that audiences explore the dark, eerie confines of the catacombs along with the characters, making the viewing experience much more personal and immersive.

As Above, So Below also creatively plays with the concepts of alchemy, history and mythology, injecting intellectual depth and intrigue into the plotline. The title of the film itself is derived from the ancient hermetic axiom, “As above, so below,” hinting at the movie's complex, symbolic undercurrents. The movie is deeply steeped in mystique and riddles that make for an engaging watch.

The horror in As Above, So Below springs not just from the hidden chambers housing skeletal remains, but also from the psychological toll the journey takes on the protagonists. The movie explores the idea that the most terrifying monsters are those that lurk within one's mind.

The performances of Perdita Weeks, Ben Feldman, and Edwin Hodge lend credibility to the narrative. Their realistic performances and evolving character dynamics offer the audience a profound human connection amidst the brooding horror and mystery.

In conclusion, As Above, So Below is a heart-pounding cinematic journey that effectively stirs the primal fears of the unknown. Its thematic depth, commitment to keeping the tension high, chilling setting, and intelligent fusion of psychological and supernatural horror elements make it a unique addition to the horror genre. Whether you are a history buff, mystery lover, or fright-junkie, As Above, So Below offers a compelling narrative that keeps you guessing and your heart rate surging until the very end.