Genre Research: Horror Films

I have done so much research on the horror genre because those are almost the only types of movies that I have been interested in for so long, and they amaze me. I'm personally interested in learning more about the horror movie subgenre. I've always been fascinated by horror films because they have the ability to elicit intense feelings and reactions in viewers. Understanding the many horror subgenres as well as the methods utilized to elicit frights and tension on screen are of great interest to me. I wish to have a better understanding of the artistry and creativity that goes into producing horror movies as well as the cultural and socioeconomic issues that affect its appeal by learning more about the genre. 

One of the films that inspired me to do this piece was the original movie Scream. The groundbreaking horror film revived the genre in the 1990s. Yet still providing enough of scares and shocks, the movie masterfully parodies and dissects the tropes of slasher flicks. The self-awareness is one of its most noticeable features; the actors frequently make references to horror films and their cliches. This postmodern strategy generates an atmosphere of lighthearted irony that simultaneously challenges and reinforces the viewer's assumptions. The movie also masterfully crafts its use of shock and tension, keeping the character of the perpetrator a secret until the very end.

In order to establish a certain tone and mood, Scream uses a rigorous mise en scene. Dark, murky illumination and ominous sound effects are used throughout the film to create anticipation right from the first scene. The small-town location of the movie, which gives the characters a feeling of fragility and seclusion, is essential to the mise en scene. The killer's trademark Ghostface mask and black hood give them a terrifying appearance on film, making the usage of their clothes and cosmetics significant as well. Dark reds, blues, and black make up the majority of the movie's color scheme, which heightens the tension and feeling of threat. Last but not least, Scream’s camera technique is flawlessly accomplished, with wide-ranging, flowing motions that foster a feeling of urgency and energy. 

 Horror movies frequently have a number of significant components. The most important is using tension and anticipation to induce feelings of uneasiness and fear. Deliberate timing, sound editing, and cinematic tricks like jump scares and odd camera work are frequently used to achieve this. The utilization of an engaging tale or idea that draws spectators in and gets them engrossed in the storyline is yet another crucial component of horror movies. This might be presented as a thriller, a paranormal occurrence, or a psychological suspense fiction. In order to convey a feeling of dread and danger, many horror movies also employ stunning visual imagery and recognizable symbols, including such masks, monsters, or sinister settings.