Genre Conventions

Horror

Josh Manley

Setting• Settings associated with horror are very particular and specific to convey

the theme effectively. Horror films are usually produced in dark locations commonly set at night to form a tense and mysterious atmosphere. Also they all seem to contain a sense of loneliness or vulnerability, so the location needs to be effective to portray the feeling. For example The Conjuring is set in a rural area with no other civilisation near by.

Examples:• Woodland• Rural Areas• Abandoned locations• Haunted Houses

Sound• The sounds (both diegetic and non-diegetic) can influence the atmosphere

of a movie immensely. Various non-diegetic soundtracks are usually used throughout the film very on a low volume to contribute the the tense atmosphere of the film. Mysterious diegetic sounds are included as a main feature in horror films. A stereotypical example would be, if a teenage girl is home alone at night and she hears a door slam

Examples:• Closing door• Floorboards squeaking• Wind • Open windows• Screams

Props• Iconic props are included in all horror films. Weaponry such knives, guns

and sharp broken objects often feature, also things in relation to torture like ropes are included. Other props which are often used to add to the mysterious theme would be curtains blowing in the wind, rocking chairs, ringing telephones, open windows.

• Other iconic props regularly used in horror films are children’s toys such as dolls. Religious items normally related to Christianity such as crucifix’s and bibles are included to symbolize the defense against the devil. In films like the conjuring, a doll is used to represent spiritual connotations. Also in all films which include exorcisms crucifix’s and bibles are always present to repel and destroy the devil.

CharacterStereotypically, horror films will include a youthful character as

a victim. Teenagers, and specifically girls, are used in the majority of horror films as they provide an element of vulnerableness which allow better emotional connections to be made with the audience. This results in more engagement in the film. The antagonists can vary but stereotypically they are usually males. This mix of characters can result in some audiences to feel uncomfortable watching the feel, providing them with a greater fear factor.

Costumes and MakeupThe costumes and makeup are extremely important in horror films as they

add to the mise-en-scene of the film which will help create a verisimilitude effect. It allows the film to be significantly scarier and create a larger fear factor. It also allows the protagonist and antagonist to be identified. Items such as masks will be associated with the antagonist and add further tension and mystery to the film. Also makeup is vital in identifying the antagonist, making them look un-human or distorted. Blood is used on both sets of characters and can indicate injuries which add to the gory aspect of the film.