What Fun We Were Having (2011)

While not a widely-released feature, Adam Wingard's 2011 short, "What Fun We Were Having," is an indispensable entry in his filmography and belongs on a list of his best works due to its foundational significance. This early, lo-fi found-footage piece perfectly encapsulates the nascent stylistic and thematic elements that would define his later, more celebrated horror and thriller outings. It's a raw, unsettling demonstration of Wingard's ability to wring palpable dread from ambiguous situations and naturalistic dialogue, relying on character-driven tension rather than overt jump scares. Furthermore, "What Fun We Were Having" serves as a crucial precursor to Wingard's groundbreaking work on *V/H/S* (2012), effectively acting as a proof-of-concept for the found-footage aesthetic and the unnerving, character-centric approach to horror that he would later master. It showcases his masterful control over atmosphere, even with minimal resources, and his unique ability to blend authentic human interactions with creeping menace. Including this short on a "Best Adam Wingard Movies" list isn't just about its individual merit, but about recognizing a vital stepping stone where the director honed the distinctive voice, suspense techniques, and indie spirit that would propel him to critical acclaim with films like *You're Next* and *The Guest*.