Reviewers often compare it to the V/H/S series, though many argue it offers a more cohesive experience because the segments are primarily written and directed by a single creator, Michael McQuown.
“The Dark Tapes goes a step above your average found footage film. You are in wide-eyed anticipation to see what the next story will bring.” PopHorror · 9 years ago Watch GR The Dark Tapes 2017
“While the ending to pretty much every segment was a letdown the stories themselves were all engaging. The practical effects work was mostly laudable as were the performances.” Heaven of Horror · 8 years ago Reviewers often compare it to the V/H/S series,
: Critics from Film Inquiry praised it as consistently tense and "intelligent," noting that it relies on atmospheric dread rather than just jump scares. Dread Central noted it contains "really cool creatures" and frightening, original moments. The practical effects work was mostly laudable as
The 2017 found-footage anthology has been described by critics as a "thinking man's horror film," notable for blending high-concept science fiction with supernatural scares on a micro-budget of approximately $65,000.
: "The Hunters & The Hunted" is frequently cited as the strongest segment for its subversion of typical haunted house tropes.