Aice Media Studies: Horror Genre

Genre: Horror

1. Genre Conventions: Content.

• Themes: Horror films frequently explore terror, death, the supernatural, isolation, the unknown, and the human psyche.

• Setting: Typically situated in gloomy or abandoned locations, such as haunted houses, forests, or basements, to heighten the eerie atmosphere.

• Characters: Usually a mix of innocents, villains, monsters, and antiheroes.

• Story Elements: Horror films frequently include jump scares, tense music, paranormal phenomena, and scenes that gradually build tension.

2. Genre Conventions: Production Techniques

• Cinematography: Dim lighting, unsteady camera views, and tight framing can create a sensation of discomfort or captivity.

• The sound design relies heavily on creepy soundtracks, abrupt loud noises, and frightening silences to heighten suspense and produce startling moments.

• Make-up and practical effects are often employed to enhance realism in animals, blood, and wounds. CGI is employed for supernatural elements on occasion, but it is usually kept to a minimum to create a raw, gritty atmosphere.

• Quick cuts are used during intense scenes, while longer editing creates tension.

3. Institutional Conventions: Marketing

• Trailers use suspenseful scenes, glimpses of antagonists, and limited conversation to establish mystery.

• Dark, dark posters generally show the antagonist or unpleasant imagery, hinting at the film's themes.

• Horror films frequently use viral marketing campaigns, teaser clips, and internet challenges (e.g., "don't watch this alone").

• Horror films are typically released around Halloween, capitalizing on the season's heightened interest in eerie content.

4. Film Sample #1: The Conjuring (2013).

The Conjuring represents the horror genre with its use of supernatural themes, dramatic buildup, and focus on a haunted house. To keep the audience on edge, the film uses jump scares and creepy sound design. Handheld camera views and gloomy lighting create an intimate, disturbing mood, while the limited use of CGI heightens the authenticity. The film's marketing centered on true tale claims and creepy posters depicting the haunted area, effectively attracting horror enthusiasts interested in paranormal storytelling.

5. Film Sample #2: Get Out (2017).

Get Out is a contemporary take on horror that incorporates social critique into its plot. It combines suspense, psychological horror, and thriller elements to discuss racial concerns in America, engaging with audiences by reflecting real-world fears. The film creates tension through tight framing and creepy quiet, while subtle editing decisions accentuate major psychological terror moments. The marketing concentrated on its distinct social message, making it appealing to a larger audience interested in horror with intellectual depth.