Creep Review (Second Sight Limited Edition Blu-ray)
From the release of Cannibal Holocaust back in 1980, found footage horror films have gone from strength to strength. Exploding into the mainstream with the release of 1999 low-budget hit The Blair Witch Project, we have since seen the likes of Paranormal Activity, REC, and the V/H/S franchise haunt our nightmares. But one film that often goes unrecognised by wider audiences is genre cinema gem Creep, now receiving the special edition treatment from physical release maestros Second Sight Film.
Directed by Patrick Brice, the 2014 found footage dark comedy horror follows struggling videographer Aaron (also played by Brice) who is hired by Josef (Mark Duplass) to travel to a remote cabin. When he gets there, Aaron is informed that Josef is dying from an inoperable brain tumour and he wants to make a video for his wife and their unborn son. As the assignment gets underway, Aaron is shocked by Josef’s bizarre behaviour that becomes increasingly erratic and begins to suspect all is not what it seems. The runaway success of the film led to a sequel in 2017 as well as Shudder’s original series The Creep Tapes, streaming now.
The premise of Creep is simple, and it is the simplicity of the storyline as well as the minimal cast and stripped-back filming method that allows the viewer to delve deeper into the characters’ actions and motivations. The dramatics of Duplass’ Josef contrast starkly to the low-budget sensibilities of the film, the juxtaposition of which heightens the many darkly comedic and absurdist elements of Creep that keep the audience in a constant state of dread.
From the opening scenes of Creep, it becomes apparent Aaron is in a difficult situation as he is tasked with creating a deeply emotional video for a seemingly dying man. And there is no relief from there as Josef taunts his unwitting victim, subjecting him to increasingly strange scenarios that push Aaron’s – and the viewer’s – politeness. Despite this, Duplass’ natural charisma oozes into his character and you can’t help but want to be close to him and learn more about this interesting enigma – even when he does subject you to Tubby Time.
Creep is the perfect example of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, taking the beloved found footage format and the tried-and-tested serial killer horror to create something that remains unique in its rich characterisation, deranged humour, and well-earned scares. As always, Second Sight show their dedication to uplifting genre titles with a jam-packed physical release with a new audio commentary from Brice, Duplass, and Christopher Donlon, as well as archival commentary and new interviews. Viewers can also dive into alternate scenes and endings that transform Creep, as well as video essays and a richly details physical essay booklet that explores the themes surrounding the beloved franchise. For found footage horror fans and lovers of physical media, Second Sight’s limited edition version of Creep is a must on your Christmas list.
★★★★★
Horror, Thriller | USA, 2014 | 15 | Limited Edition Blu-Ray | 9th December 2024 (UK) | Second Sight Films | Dir. Patrick Brice | Mark Duplass, Patrick Brice | Pre-Order/Buy
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
About the Author
