Found-footage horror films, particularly those employing a mockumentary style and focusing on ecological or viral outbreaks, represent a specific subgenre gaining popularity. The Bay (2012), for example, depicts a parasitic outbreak in a Maryland town through the lens of compiled footage from various sources. This approach creates a sense of realism and immediacy, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
This style of filmmaking allows for budgetary efficiency while delivering a visceral, impactful narrative. The use of “discovered” footage heightens the sense of suspense and horror, placing the viewer in the position of an investigator piecing together the events. Such films often explore anxieties surrounding environmental issues, government cover-ups, and the breakdown of social order, resonating with contemporary societal concerns. Furthermore, they can serve as cautionary tales, prompting reflection on the potential consequences of neglecting ecological balance or mishandling scientific advancements.