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Paranormal Activity

Paranormal Activity is a 2007 American supernatural horror film written, directed, photographed, edited, and produced by Oren Peli.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Paranormal Activity is a 2007 American supernatural horror film written, directed, photographed, edited, and produced by Oren Peli. It uses a found-footage style and follows a young couple haunted by a supernatural presence in their home. The film premiered in 2007 and received a wide release in 2009, later launching a franchise of seven films and related media.

Plot and style

The story centres on a young couple, Katie and Micah, who experience disturbing paranormal events in their home. The film's found-footage format presents events as though recorded by home or security cameras, a style that became central to its identity and commercial success.

Production and release

Oren Peli independently produced the film, which was made on a low budget. After its festival premiere in 2007, it received a wide release in 2009. The film is noted for its high profitability relative to its production cost.

Franchise

The film launched a franchise that expanded into multiple sequels and related works. By 2021, the franchise consisted of seven films, including Paranormal Activity: Next of Kin. The series is associated with the demon known as Toby, a recurring presence across the films.

Reception and impact

Paranormal Activity is credited with helping popularize the found-footage horror subgenre in mainstream cinema. Its box-office performance was exceptionally strong relative to its modest production budget, contributing to its impact on the horror genre.

See also

Arrival (film), Sinners, The Housemaid, Avatar: Fire and Ash, F1 Movie

Key facts

  • Paranormal Activity is a found-footage horror film directed by Oren Peli.
  • The film follows a couple haunted by a supernatural presence in their home.
  • It launched a franchise of seven films by 2021.
  • The film is known for its low budget and high profitability.
  • The series features a recurring demon named Toby.
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Canadian context

The film was distributed widely in North America and became part of the broader international horror market familiar to Canadian audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Paranormal Activity?
Paranormal Activity is a 2007 American supernatural horror film by Oren Peli that uses a found-footage format.
Who directed Paranormal Activity?
The film was directed by Oren Peli.
When was it released?
It premiered in 2007 and received a wide release in 2009.
What is the story about?
It centres on a young couple whose home is haunted by a supernatural presence.
How many films are in the franchise?
The franchise consisted of seven films by 2021.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paranormal_Activity_(franchise)
    Supports: Franchise overview, creator, release range, found-footage style, and number of films.
  2. Fandomhttps://paranormalactivity.fandom.com/wiki/Paranormal_Activity
    Supports: Original film details, plot premise, and 2009 U.S. release information.
  3. Danish Wikipediahttps://da.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paranormal_Activity
    Supports: Festival premiere, wide release, and low-budget production details.
  4. IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/list/ls521419056/
    Supports: General franchise framing and found-footage description.