Review of Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (2015) by Forrest S — 22 Oct 2015

Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension finally puts an end to the series. The film promises a lot with the chance to finally see who Toby is and the reason behind the activity. Unfortunately, those are the only things that differentiate The Ghost Dimension from the other films in the franchise. It's just another family in another haunted house. The film comes undone by its shoddy mythology. It spends half its time trying to scare you and the other half awkwardly explaining what is happening. The integration of spirit photography does open territory but to lackluster results. The ability to see what's happening to the family removes the bite from what the original so terrifying. The minimalism and grounded nature struck fear in many hearts several years ago. Now, after six movies including the spinoffs, the wear and tear on the premise is completely apparent. When the family tries to do something about their situation, they're told to do the same thing as every other family in the series, "Don't leave the house." And ultimately, the same fate awaits them.

The promises of the film are interesting but seem to be the only reason why the film was made. Toby turns out to be a black mass of sludge, contradicting what was established in the original by the powder trail. The reason for the activity will be unsatisfying for any fan who stuck with the series. The addition of 3D is a clear cash grab and excuse for the CGI. There being only two true 3D moments in the hour and 35 minute run time. The Ghost Dimension will be remembered as the end but also as another painfully bland entry full of out-of-nowhere jump scares.

For anyone who is new to the franchise, if the first hooks you, watch up to the third one. Still interested after that, the Japanese spinoff, PA2: Tokyo Nights, is a terrifying experience and arguably my favorite. Watching any other one will be a waste of time. (PA: The Marked Ones adds an extra twist to the original with some Latino flair. It fills in some small plot holes but only that.).