Apollo 18 uses the "Found Footage" concept to less than startling effect. It features a couple of astronauts dealing with a strange situation on the surface of the moon. Upon landing, our two leads discover a deserted Russian craft and shortly thereafter, a strange infection begins to drive one of them crazy. Soon, Paranoia sets in and these astronauts start questioning each other's ability to make rational decisions. Apollo 18 suggests that there was a government cover-up during an early 70's lunar expedition, but the film lacks authenticity. It never feels truly real, therefore the movie is rendered rather ineffective. Plus, this movie is just plain dull. I love the slow burn approach, particularly in a horror film, but Apollo 18's brief seventy five minute running time feels considerably longer than it actually is. Apollo 18 isn't a total waste. The sound design is outstanding, and there's some creative effects work, particularly in the final act when we discover what's behind the infection. Over all though, this sci-fi conspiracy thriller is a half baked attempt at capturing the lightning in a bottle success of Paranormal Activity and Blair Witch Project.
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