[Popcorn Frights ’23] ‘Puzzle Box’ review: Australian found footage is a nightmarish labyrinth

Making its world premiere at the Popcorn Frights Film Festival, Puzzle Box is a found footage movie that adds elements of escape room horror. Olivia (Laneikka Denne) has taken her sister Kati (Kaitlyn Boye) to a secluded townhouse in the woods to help her rehab from drugs. The house begins to transform, threatening to trap them forever.

The best found footage films tend to have a minimalist feel. Realistic settings and creating atmosphere take precedence over special effects. Puzzle Box sets the tone early with heavy personal stakes. This usually adds to the immersion. There is a concerted effort to build a strong emotional attachment to the sisters.

When Puzzle Box becomes a more traditional horror movie, the perspective changes. It is a neat idea that mirrors Kati’s struggle. Constantly under scrutiny, she takes advantage of the opportunity to be in control. Shots are intercut to fill in Kati’s backstory. They do add to the mystery and even explain why the two are filming – kind of – but they sometimes feel like an unneeded addition. The lack of development for Olivia is also noticeable.

By the end of Puzzle Box, it is clear that this is Kati’s story. The twists and confinement of the house seem to be a metaphor for her life. She is constantly running away while also try to find a way out but can never seem to escape.   The ending serves to highlight the cycle of addiction.

The Popcorn Frights Film Festival takes place from August 10 -20. The schedule and tickets can be found HERE