Genre Research — Horror

 Horror

Written by Natalie Rencher 

Candidate #9586

Why horror?

I chose the horror genre because I find horror to be a genre that explores psychological aspects that dive into the human psyche and explore fears, anxieties, and the darker aspects of human nature. Which gives the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the human mind and behavior in a darker state. I also enjoy the cinematic techniques used for horror films that create the special effect of suspense and terror. Therefore, the genre of horror offers a unique lens to explore aspects of human experience and artistic expression brought forward in film and media.

Content of the genre:

Horror is a genre of storytelling that aims to bring out feelings of fear and terror in its audience that evolves elements of suspense, evil, dystopia and the supernatural. Horror forms of media are known for their ability to elicit storing emotional responses such as apprehensions, unease, and shock. Audiences can expect to experience a sense of fear, dread, tension, anticipation, gore and violence, thrills and jump-scares which can keep audiences on the edge of their seats and emotionally connected to the story as the story unfolds. Which overall emotionally connects the audience and builds a need to find out how the story unfolds. There are many sub genres that exist within the horror genre, but some examples include: Supernatural horror that involves supernatural elements, psychological horror which explodes the themes of insanity, paranoia, and exploration of the human mind, gothic horror which draws on elements of eerie settings and dark atmospheres, and lastly found footage horror which utilizes a documentary-style presentation including shaky camera footage that creates the sense of authenticity.

Techniques: Common techniques used in horror openings include~ 

An opening with an eerie atmosphere— creating a creepy and foreboding atmosphere. This can be achieved through visuals, dim lighting, unsettling music, or by showcasing an eerie location. The opening scene of the 2015 film “It follows” can be an example of this as it opens with dark lighting, an empty street, and unsettling background music. 

A prologue or flashback scene that introduces a past event or back story— establishing the context for the horror to come. This can create a sense of mystery and anticipation. The opening scene of the 2019 film “Us” can be ann example of this because it includes a flashback of the main character as a child stumbling across one of main antagonists throughout the film that is later introduced.

 False sense of security- Which includes beginning with a seemingly ordinary or calm setting and lulling the audience into a false sense of security before revealing the horror. This technique can create a contrast between the initial tranquil scenes and the eventual terror. The opening of the 2011 film “Cabin in the woods” can be an example as it opens with men engaged in a casual conversation in a seemingly normal workplace creating a sales sense of security. The true nature of their work is revealed as the film progresses.

 Some techniques not limited to opening scenes include:

 Sound design- Which employs an eerie or dissonant sound, unsettling music, or unnerving ambient noises to intensify the sense of fear and unease. A movie that is based upon sound design is the 2018 film “A quiet place”. The film uses minimal dialogue and has a emphasis on silence which allows the audience to focus on the ambient sounds, music that pinpoints key emotional moments and provides further depth to the storytelling, and lastly dynamic sound editing which utilities sound editing techniques of loud and soft sounds, precise placement of sounds, and shifts in audio volume to contribute to the suspenseful nature of the film.

Cinematography- Which utilizes creative camera angles, framing, and perspectives to create tension, convey a claustrophobic atmosphere, or hide the visibility of threats. The 2019 film “Midsommar” utilizes cinematography by using long take and slow camera movements to draw audiences attention to details and build tension. It also uses wide shots to emphasize the isolation of the characters even through some of the shots take place in bright lighted landscapes which contrasts the horrific effects happening. Lastly low-angle shots to make characters appear vulnerable or high-angle shots to make the characters seem powerful.

Lastly, introducing and establishing the likable protagonist at the start of the film. This can allow an emotional connection for the viewer, therefore when terrifying situations occur for the character the fear and concern is increased for the viewer. The 2017 film “Get Out” establishes an innocent and likable character by portraying him as a compassionate and empathetic guy. He is introduced as a loving boyfriend to his girlfriend (Rose) and his genuine interest in meeting her family. Also through conversations, his intelligence, humor and down to earth personality makes him someone the audience can connect with and root for throughout the film.

Marketing:

Commonly used marketing strategies vary depending on the film and target audience, but some examples include teaser trailers which include teasing scares that generate intrigue and excitement for the audience. Social media marketing including blogs and viral posts containing brief content about the film. Collaboration with horror fan communities and influencers can help generate buzz, and encourage word or mouth discussions and lastly partnerships with relevant brands and media outlets can expand the films reach while reaching the appropriate target audience. Movie posters are commonly outside movie theaters with such words “coming soon” etc. Many horror/thriller movies are advertised through trailers or commercials that appear on tv or social media platforms. The 2022 film “Smile” was the talk of the world on social media platforms, tv, and many other places after the tv network Paramount, attempted a different approach at marketing the movie by placed several actors at different MLB and NFL games leading up to the horror films release. These actors adopted the biggest smile they could.

Movie that utilizes the conventions of horror:

Movie Title: “The Conjuring.”

The 2013 film “The Conjuring” is based on a true story and follows paranormal investigators-the Warrens- who were renowned for their work on various cases. The Warrens are approached by the Perron family soon after settling in to their new home because the family starts experiencing strange and haunting experiences. Realizing that the Perron family is dealing with a supernatural force, the Warrens agree to help. As they dive deeper into the investigation, they uncover the dark history or the house and its previous owners. It is soon uncovered that the Perron are being haunted by a powerful demonic presence. As activity intensifies, the investigators rely on their faith to confront the evil presence and attempt the save the Perron’s family. This film utilizes the conventions of horror because it takes place in an old haunted house setting, there are supernatural beings such as ghosts and demonic beings which are common horror antagonists, jump scares that startle the audience and creaste a sense of unease, and lastly the based on true events plot with exorcism and spiritual themes, which incorporates the elements of spirituality against evil and combating the supernatural forces.