As Above, So Below (film)

As Above, So Below (film) is a psychological horror film that was released in 2014. Directed by John Erick Dowdle, As Above, So Below is a story about a group of explorers who venture into the catacombs of Paris in search of the philosopher's stone. The philosopher's stone is a legendary artifact that is believed to grant immortality and the power to turn base metals into gold. The protagonist of the film, Scarlett Marlowe, is obsessed with finding the stone, which her father had spent his life searching for. The film begins with Scarlett, accompanied by her cameraman, Benji, and a team of explorers, venturing into the catacombs in search of the philosopher's stone. The catacombs are a maze of tunnels that stretch for miles beneath the city of Paris. As the group descends deeper into the catacombs, they encounter a series of supernatural occurrences that lead them to question their sanity. They soon realize that the catacombs are not just a physical labyrinth, but a manifestation of their innermost fears and desires. The film's title, As Above, So Below, is a phrase that comes above-so-below" title="As above, so below">below" title="As above, so below">below" title="Five Below">from the Hermetic tradition which states that everything is connected and mirrors degrees-below-zero-why" title="Two degrees below zero: why">what is above in the heavens, on earth. This idea is reflected in the film's narrative, as the catacombs become a mirror of the protagonist's psyche. Throughout the film, Scarlett struggles with her past traumas, including the death of her father, while also contending with the malevolent spirits that haunt the catacombs. The other members of the group, including the philosopher's stone scholar, George, and the skeptical guide, Papillon, also have their own inner demons to confront. As the group navigates the catacombs, they are tested in more ways than one. They must face their deepest fears and desires, confront their mortality, and ultimately, come to terms with their past traumas. All of this leads to a thrilling and intense climax, where the true meaning of the philosopher's stone is revealed. As Above, So Below is a unique horror film that offers more than just jump scares and gore. The film's use of the catacombs as a psychological testing ground is both clever and effective. The actors, led by Perdita Weeks, who plays Scarlett, give strong performances, which provide emotional depth to the film's characters. The film's setting in the catacombs of Paris also adds to the film's atmosphere, creating a sense of claustrophobia and dread. The cinematography, which captures the beauty and eeriness of the catacombs, is also impressive. In conclusion, As Above, So Below is an underrated horror film that offers a fresh and unique approach to the genre. The film is both terrifying and emotionally engaging, buoyed by a strong cast, clever use of symbolism, and an eerie setting. If you're a fan of horror that offer more than just cheap thrills, then As Above, So Below is definitely worth a watch.