Horror Research

 

A Deep Dive into the Horror Film Genre

    The genre of horror has been gaining popularity, especially around teenagers. 

CONTENT: 

    Horror films aim to provoke feelings of fear, dread, and suspense in audiences. The typical content includes supernatural or monstrous characters, psychological terror, violent and gory scenes, and themes of death. They explore many of human's fears, often emphasizing the unknown, vulnerability, and the inevitable threat of death. Common plot elements that are seen are locations that are haunted and cursed artifacts. 

PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES: 

    Horror films use several techniques to heighten tension and create a scary atmosphere. Low lightning or dimly lit scenes use the shadow and contrasts to obscure figures seen on the screen to create suspense. They also often use sharp and unsettling sound such as eerie music, sudden loud noises, and silence to help enhance fear. 

MARKETING: 

    Marketing for horror films is often easier, as it focuses on one main demographic, as teenagers and young adults are drawn to this genre. They are typically marketed with a heavy emphasis on suspense, mystery, and shock. Trailers, posters, and promotional content often feature jump scares and typically highlight chilling imagery, such as ominous figures, unsettling locations, or key frightening scenes, to create immediate interest. 

SAMPLES: 

    The Shining (1980) is a psychological horror film that exemplifies horror through its claustrophobic atmosphere, supernatural elements, and themes of isolation and madness. The film uses unsettling music, long tracking shots, and unsettling camera angles to evoke a sense of dread. Jack Torrance's descent into madness and the supernatural occurrences in the hotel represent the genre's focus on psychological horror and the unknown. The film's set design, especially the empty and eerie hotel hallways, builds and atmosphere that leaves the audience with a feeling of unsettlement. 

    Hereditary (2018) delves into family trauma, grief, and the supernatural to convey horror. The film combines a realistic portrayal of family suffering with disturbing supernatural elements, which creates a chilling psychological horror experience. It employs unsettling imagery, foreshadowing, and visual symbolism to create dread. The use of long, unbroken shots and moments of silence allow tension to build, while shocking, violent scenes punctuate the narrative, which keeps viewers constantly on edge. The film's powerful performances and eerie atmosphere emphasizes the genre's themes of vulnerability. 

OTHER MOVIES WITHIN THIS GENRE: 

The Conjuring (2013)

Insidious: The Red Door (2023)

The Exorcist (1973)

The Quiet Place (2018)

The Ring (2002)

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)