i was pretty surprised when i found out that paranormal activity was a low budget movie. why cant other good independent movies out there wasnt as good as paranormal activity?

im pretty sure there are a few indie movies out there that are just as good or even better, and some people just wont know cus its an independent film

my list of good independent films i liked and would like to see:
The Blair Witch Project
In the Company of Men
The Evil Dead
Donnie Darko
Chain Letter