‘Creep’ is a disturbing and unsettling film that delivers unexpected shocks, making one question whether it lives up to the expectations set by its unusual premise. The filmmakers behind ‘Creep’ previously brought viewers unnerving and suspenseful experiences with films like ‘Paranormal Activity’ and ‘The Purge.’ While the found footage genre has become commonplace, ‘Creep’ manages to offer a sense of freshness and dark humor that is genuinely compelling. When a horror film can successfully blend chaos and comedy while maintaining its unsettling tone, it demonstrates a clever reinvention of the familiar found footage format. The appeal of ‘Creep’ stems from the creative minds of director/co-writer Patrick Brice (in his directorial debut), co-writer/co-star Mark Duplass, and producer Jason Blum (‘Paranormal Activity,’ ‘Insidious,’ ‘Sinister’). These collaborators infuse the film with a significant amount of dark humor within this atmospheric indie production, utilizing low-budget techniques and surprising scares. Unemployed videographer Aaron (Patrick Brice) inadvertently finds himself in a precarious situation when he responds to a Craigslist ad seeking someone to document a secretive project. He travels to an isolated cabin high in the mountains to meet Josef (Mark Duplass, known from TV’s ‘The League’). Josef, claiming to be battling cancer, wants to create a video diary for his unborn son. Initially, the request seems harmless, something Aaron should handle with caution. Aaron’s assignment appears straightforward as he captures intimate moments and insights that Josef intends to leave for his future child. The two men even develop a connection, combining work with some shared leisure time. However, Josef gradually reveals his true nature as his interviews become increasingly intense and erratic. His moods shift unpredictably, causing Aaron to grow uneasy with his videotaping companion’s behavior. This discomfort is compounded when Aaron uncovers disturbing details about Josef's past. The extent of Josef’s delusions becomes a central question in Aaron’s evolving perspective. The shocking moments in ‘Creep’ are effective, particularly within the context of a low-budget production that feels refreshingly tight and offbeat, delivering jump scares alongside the unsettling dynamic between the two men – one driven by suspicion and paranoia, and the other consumed by psychosis. Josef's constant antagonism towards Aaron is a disturbing tease that becomes increasingly chilling. The film avoids letting the found footage aspect overshadow the psychological tension between the wary Aaron and the unstable Josef. ‘Creep’ distinguishes itself from many horror films by avoiding reliance on gore as a primary tactic. Instead, it satirizes the genre with a knowing wink through shaky camera work. The real suspense lies in Josef's unpredictable motives – a volatile character who could explode at any moment, leaving viewers wondering when and where his madness will be directed toward Aaron. Brice and Duplass are convincingly engrossing as co-writers and co-stars of this tense thriller that doesn’t need excessive violence to deliver a thrilling experience. Creep (2015) The Orchard 1 hr. 20 mins. Starring: Mark Duplass and Patrick Brice Directed by: Patrick Brice MPAA Rating: R Genre: Horror and Suspense Critic’s Rating: *** stars (out of 4 stars)

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