Is Paranormal Activity 3 Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Paranormal Activity 3 is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 83 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.

Verdict:Paranormal Activity 3 is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 5.9/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Horror, Mystery genre.
Answer: Maybe not, Paranormal Activity 3 is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 83 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2011, Paranormal Activity 3 emerges as a significant entry in the Horror, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of In 1988, young sisters Katie and Kristi befriend an invisible entity who resides in their home. Unlike standard genre fare, Paranormal Activity 3 attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Paranormal Activity 3 features a noteworthy lineup led by Katie Featherston . Supported by the likes of Sprague Grayden and Lauren Bittner , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
In summary, our editorial assessment of Paranormal Activity 3 (2011) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Quick Plot Summary: Paranormal Activity 3 is a Horror, Mystery film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. In 1988, young sisters Katie and Kristi befriend an invisible entity who resides in their home. The film uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Ending Breakdown: Paranormal Activity 3 attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
The final moments of Paranormal Activity 3 reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Consider Watching If:
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $207.0M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
The estimated production budget for Paranormal Activity 3 is $5.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.








Apple TV
Zee5
Amazon Video
Apple TVAnalyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.9/10, and global collection metrics, Paranormal Activity 3 stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2011 cinematic year.
Paranormal Activity 3 has received mixed reviews with a 5.9/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Paranormal Activity 3 is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Mystery movies, but read reviews first.
Paranormal Activity 3 may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
A tad better than the first if only because at 84-minutes there's not as much filler and a couple creepy scenes. Still not great with forgettable characters but at least watchable, although it was a bridge too far with the HD-quality level of video for a camera from 1988. **2.5/5**
Paranormal Activity 3 is a faithful continuation of the series, delivering all the expected horrors and more. Colour me surprised. This one was better than the second, and I enjoyed it more than the first one. The atmosphere of “Paranormal Activity 3” is similar to the first film, and the larger cast delivers respectable performances. The scares might not be as effective as they once were since the same formula is becoming stale, but a handful of fresh ideas were good enough to compensate for it. The plot isn't the franchise's strong suit, but we get a little more insight into the demon and how the demon became connected to the family in this instalment. Most of the connections between the films appear forced, and there is an overall sense of incoherence. Nonetheless, if you like the first two films, this one could be exactly up your alley; if not, it's probably better to avoid it, as it doesn't add much to the formula. ___ Rating: **6.9/10** *(Good)*
My favorite one out of the series. Goes back when they were little kids. This is how it all begin. Lots of hauntings going. This is how I wish the other 2 made before this one was.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.



Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise