Written and directed by Max Tzannes, co-written by David San Miguel, a crew of documentarians chronicle an amateur filmmaker’s quest to make the world’s greatest found footage horror film. Starring: Brennan Keel Cook, Dean Cameron, Erika Vetter, Chen Tang, Rachel Alig, Chelsea Gilson, Del Alan Murphy, Suzanne Ford, Alex G. Smith and Christian T. Chan.

When it comes to comedy horror and having characters that can fall into mishaps with otherworldly creatures or presences, it requires a certain level of cluelessness and Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project embodies that perfectly. Max Tzannes and David San Miguel create these utterly enthusiastic and naïve characters who are built to fall into messes that they’re mostly unprepared to deal with. They hit that tone so well that it’s almost adorable, without becoming cheesy, in a wholesome horror victim kind of way.

The style reminds slightly of 2008’s Baghead or the even more niche, 1991’s There’s Nothing Out There, managing to establish a lingering threat while focusing on entertainment and humour. That’s a big part of the charm of Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project it strikes a natural and casual note. It captures an old-school indie filmmaking feel, the enthusiasm of its characters bleeding into the atmosphere and style of the film. Especially when Tzannes and Miguel’s sense of humour is nicely simple, it’s a classic style of comedy using a lot of miscommunication and physicality.

Another big part of its charm is the cast, this is a superb ensemble. Brennan Keel Cook’s Chase is the perfect parody, yet still fairly realistic, of an indie filmmaker. He’s got the commitment and hustle down, while Erika Vetter is excellent as his first AD and girlfriend, Natalie. She’s a grounded and patient presence, the quintessential person who holds everything together. Vetter has a lovely connection with Chen Tang’s sweet and loyal Mitchell, the two are a surprisingly wholesome duo. Del Alan Murphy is another highlight as the hapless yet unexpectedly tuned in Pete. There’s no weak link to be found, everyone in the cast has something to add and they all get their chance to add to the comedy and create their own personalities.

Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project is a blast, coming in at the sweet spot of ninety minutes and it never lets up, it’s a great time from start to finish. Max Tzannes really hits the nail on the head with the style and tone, it’s everything you could ask for. The cast then all tap into that, embodying that chaotic yet wholesome presence, and hitting the comedic notes really well and with brilliant timing. Everything works so strongly in unison and it’s a lot of fun. Also, if you enjoy this film, you should definitely check out For Sale by Exorcist.

Verdict: ✯✯✯✯ | 8/10

In select theaters from June 20 & on Digital from June 24 in North America, June 30 in the UK | For more info visit thepattersonproject.org