On June 6, 2023, the paranormal fiction series Paranormal Closure disappears from television without explanation. Over a year later, footage purporting to be its unaired twelfth episode surfaced online. This mystery provides a strong opening for EPISODE 12, directed by Shawn Robinson.
It also feels like the start of a warning that no one intends to heed.
A couple to watch
The couple at the helm of Paranormal Closure are immediately likeable. Their chemistry feels natural, which gives the investigation some emotional weight before everything starts to fall apart.
The acting remains good from start to finish, especially when supernatural activity begins to push one of the husbands towards complete collapse. At some point the options are to leave it or take it somewhere with grippy socks. The continuation of the investigation must not remain on the table.
Never follow children into the woods
I have a reliable rule for paranormal investigations. Never look for children who claim to have seen something in the woods.
At best, they want attention. Worst case scenario, it’s a wendigo. Neither option is worth your afternoon.
The young actors are the film’s greatest strength. They keep their performances understated and believable rather than trying too hard to appear scary. Many of the film’s best moments work because the kids know when to do less.
Insidious meets paranormal activity
EPISODE 12 feels like Insidious filtered through paranormal activity. It combines domestic supernatural horror with handheld cameras, long silences and people refusing to leave even though leaving is clearly the right answer.
The strongest scares come from shapes, sounds, and small movements near the edge of the frame. The film understands that found footage becomes scary when the audience spots something before the characters do.
The sound quality is uneven and some dialogue becomes difficult to hear. It’s noticeable, but it’s an independent production. The problem is worth mentioning, not the cruelty.
Too much waiting
The pacing is the biggest weak point of the film.
EPISODE 12 is painfully slow, with long sequences that don’t provide enough character development, evidence, or scares to justify the wait. A slow burn always requires something burning.
There’s a good supernatural mystery here, supported by a charming central couple, strong acting, and child performers who almost steal the entire film. It just takes too long to get to its strongest material.
EPISODE 12 is worth watching for the cast and its reclaimed broadcast premise.
Just leave the kids in the woods.
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