Genre Research: Horror

One genre I am researching is the horror genre. The horror genre is used in order to frighten or scare the viewer. A common camera angle used in horror films is the dutch angle. This is used in order to provide a surreal or nightmare effect to the shot. Another angle commonly used is the high angle to show the character is powerless and vulnerable in that situation. Tracking or panning shots are also regularly used in horror films. This is used to emphasize the movement of the character running from something or being watched and or followed. Typical Mis-En-Scene found in a horror film would be dark lighting or very monotone lighting. Also a suspicious setting such as an abandoned house or hotel is usually found in horror films. These are used to increase the suspense and builds a scary setting. They also may include weapons such as, knives, chainsaws, guns, etc. Makeup used in horror films frequently include, pale bloody makeup or scary effects like scars to make the viewers afraid. The use of transitions to build tension is often and editing choice found in horror films. Intense build up music that typically starts low in tone and pace but increasingly gets faster and louder is often used. Also sound effects like screeching, screaming, creaking, doors opening, violins and etc. are used as well. Films for example, The Conjuring, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Ring, and Sinister are all examples of films that fall under the horror genre. An element I like about the horror genre is the element of surprise and build up of fear and suspense. I love that you can pick anything and turn it into a scary movie full of jump scares and make people truly feel afraid. An element I don’t like about the horror genre is the typical death and blood. I am not a very gory person and although I do love the jump scares the violence does not appeal to me. Anyways, peace out!