‘As Above, So Below’ Finds New Life on Streaming

Streaming platforms have a knack for breathing new life into films that once slipped under the radar. Lately, it’s the 2014 horror flick ‘As Above, So Below’ that’s been making waves. The story follows urban archaeologist Scarlett Marlowe, played by Perdita Weeks, as she ropes in a crew to document their journey through the uncharted catacombs beneath Paris. What starts as a straightforward exploration quickly spirals into a nightmare, with each team member forced to confront their own personal demons. The film takes the found footage style and gives it a supernatural twist, making for a wild ride.

From Box Office Blip to Streaming Hit

Right now, ‘As Above, So Below’ is sitting comfortably in the top 10 films on HBO Max, with horror fans either revisiting it or discovering it for the first time. In most regions, it’s landed at number 6 or 7, steadily climbing the charts over the past week. When it first hit cinemas, though, the film didn’t exactly win over critics. It scored a mere 29% “Rotten” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 78 reviews. Despite that rocky start, the film has found a second wind online, with word of mouth helping it carve out a cult following. New horror fans, keen to explore the genre, are giving it a go thanks to streaming services, which have become a handy way to reassess films that might’ve been overlooked the first time around.

The film stands out for its unsettling religious imagery and documentary-style approach, setting it apart from the usual horror fare on offer. Its unique blend of creepy visuals and a descent into both literal and figurative darkness makes it a standout in HBO’s massive catalogue.

Timing and Trends: Why It Was Overlooked

Back in 2014, the found footage genre was everywhere, with as many as 15 films using the same style that year. The format, made famous by titles like ‘The Blair Witch Project’ and ‘Paranormal Activity’, was at its peak. ‘As Above, So Below’ didn’t try to reinvent the wheel, instead sticking to what was working at the box office. With so many similar films out at the same time, it’s no wonder this one got lost in the shuffle.

Now, with the initial hype around found footage having died down, punters are giving the film another look. Its creative take on hell and the way the characters handle their bizarre situation are finally getting the recognition they missed out on a decade ago.

A Cult Favourite Emerges

It remains to be seen just how far this resurgence will go, or if the film will keep climbing the streaming charts. For now, though, ‘As Above, So Below’ is enjoying a well-deserved moment in the spotlight. The film’s mix of hope and horror, along with its eerie atmosphere, makes it a top pick for a late-night scare session. With streaming services giving it a second chance, it’s clear that some stories just need a bit of time to find their audience.