As Above, So Below Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "As Above, So Below" stands out by capitalizing on the found footage aesthetic, which is bolstered by sharp attention to visual detail. The cinematography smartly leverages diverse catacomb environments, ensuring that textures—like airborne subterranean dust illuminated by headlamps—and the rare, vivid coloration of ancient hieroglyphics appear both clear and immersive. Despite the deliberate inclusion of digital bodycam effects and stylistic distortion to match the film’s narrative approach, the overall image retains excellent clarity and depth. This modern source material translates well to Blu-ray and effectively underscores the tension and unpredictability inherent in the film’s visual storytelling.

Notably, shifts between claustrophobic tunnel navigation and more spacious “puzzle” or “trap” chambers introduce dynamic changes in visual composition. In these controlled sequences, the transfer preserves nuanced lighting and depth, allowing intricate set details to emerge. While the film’s digital source lends itself to some minor artifacts consistent with the genre, these never detract from overall presentation quality. The Blu-ray faithfully reproduces both the intended grit and the few moments of heightened detail, elevating "As Above, So Below" above typical found footage fare in terms of visual execution.

The Blu-ray presentation of "As Above, So Below" features English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and 2.0 LPCM tracks, with optional English SDH subtitles. The 7.1 DTS-HD MA mix delivers an enveloping and atmospheric experience, particularly during scenes set in the Catacombs. The soundtrack cleverly employs ambient effects and immersive panning across all channels, creating a sense of confinement and unease that suits the film’s underground setting. Deep bass effects are prominent in destructive sequences, providing substantial low-end rumble during moments such as the collapsing ceilings and walls. Above ground, nuanced sound elements—like the resonance of clanging bells—stand out for their clarity and spatial placement. The mix also upmixes seamlessly via Dolby Surround to systems with additional height speakers, highlighting the robust engineering of the original audio design.

Both the 7.1 and 2.0 mixes exhibit careful soundscape creation, with composer Keefus Ciancia’s unconventional score integrated into the mix for subtle yet effective atmospheric tension. However, reviewers have noted a recurrent issue with dialogue intelligibility: speech is often subdued compared to heightened sound effects, leading to potential challenges in maintaining a consistent listening volume. This mixing choice may be intentional, reflecting the film’s cinéma vérité aesthetic, but it can momentarily compromise narrative clarity as viewers may need to adjust volume levels to accommodate shifting dynamics. Despite this, the overall audio experience is textured and dynamic, supporting the film's horror elements with creative use of space and sound design.

The extras on the "As Above, So Below" Blu-ray are a strong blend of insightful commentary, thorough research, and behind-the-scenes perspectives that provide considerable value for fans and cinephiles. A standout is the new audio commentary by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas, a respected film critic and academic, who brings in-depth analysis on the film's influences, production history, and the Paris Catacombs' context, all heavily documented with sources, including her own scholarly work. The disc also features a comprehensive video essay by Mary Beth McAndrews and in-depth interviews illuminating both performance and technical challenges, such as shooting in the unique underground environment. Collectively, these supplements enhance appreciation of the film’s narrative decisions and visual strategies, delving into folklore, filmmaking techniques, and real-world settings with expert clarity.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas: Analytical track exploring thematic roots, production context, and historical background.
• To Hell and Back: Video essay by Mary Beth McAndrews discussing narrative and stylistic aspects.
• Beyond the Catacombs: Interview with actor Ben Feldman about his role and experiences during filming.
• Shooting Underground: Interview with director of photography Léo Hinstin covering the technical and creative specifics of underground cinematography.
• Inside 'As Above / So Below': Archival featurette presenting a behind-the-scenes look at production.
• Theatrical Trailer
• Limited Edition Packaging: Includes six photo cards.

As Above, So Below draws immediate comparisons to earlier found footage films, but sets itself apart with both its unique Parisian underground setting and ambitious genre-mixing. While the premise initially hints at familiar territory—urban explorers entering the Catacombs de Paris—the narrative quickly evolves, eschewing cannibalistic threats for existential horror rooted in the pursuit of the legendary Philosopher’s Stone. The story’s strength lies in its ability to subvert expectations: the protagonists’ discoveries are more psychologically harrowing than stereotypical monster reveals, and the film’s unpredictable direction keeps engagement high.

Where many found footage entries are hampered by budget limitations and repetitive, uninspired locales, As Above, So Below leverages genuine access to Paris and its labyrinthine catacombs, delivering authenticity that amplifies claustrophobia and dread. This production value is matched by a willingness to blend classic horror with action-adventure and puzzle-thriller elements, resulting in a tone that evokes Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Da Vinci Code alongside Blair Witch. The film’s central character, Scarlett, brings an Indiana Jones-inspired drive to her quest, and while supporting characters sometimes veer toward archetype, the dynamic between Scarlett and George adds a needed emotional anchor.

The found footage format is employed with notable energy, including a high-octane opening sequence rarely seen in the genre. While some scares may trend toward theatrical or even corny, and certain performances are uneven, these moments are counterbalanced by palpable tension and immersive, gritty atmosphere. Minor shortcomings in effects are outweighed by the ambition and inventiveness on display, making As Above, So Below a standout within its category.

The Blu-ray release of "As Above, So Below" from Via Vision stands out for both its technical merits and its thoughtful curation of supplemental materials. The video and audio quality adhere to the same high standard established by previous editions, offering a reliably immersive experience for viewers. Notably, Via Vision's packaging is both attractive and robust, distinguishing it from earlier releases. On the extras front, this edition is notably stronger: the inclusion of an Alexandra Heller-Nicholas commentary and a visual essay by Mary Beth McAndrews provides in-depth analysis and valuable insight into both the film’s themes and its creative processes. These features will be especially beneficial to film students and genre aficionados interested in found footage techniques and narrative construction.

"As Above, So Below" often divides opinion due to its distinctive blend of horror sub-genres, combining found footage conventions with adventure-based storytelling. However, this disc serves as a robust entry point for those new to the format and offers significant appeal for seasoned fans. The bonus content specifically caters to aspiring filmmakers, offering a detailed look at the production’s challenges and innovations, which elevates the overall value of this package well beyond a standard catalogue release.

In conclusion, this edition of "As Above, So Below" stands as a definitive version for collectors and newcomers alike. With superior packaging, carefully curated bonus content, and strong technical presentation, the Via Vision release offers significant upgrades over earlier editions and is an easy recommendation for those seeking both entertainment and deeper engagement with the film’s creative context.