Overall Codes and ConventionsOf the Horror Films we have analysed.

• Within the first two minutes, tension is built up.• Events shown are inconspicuous, it is not clear to the audience

what is actually happening.• Hermeneutic codes are common in order to draw the

audience in and keep them interested.• Often the characters face is not fully shown.• The opening credits are normally long and drawn out.• The opening credits are generally on a black background, with

plain white writing.• The characters are generally male and female.• If outside, it is night time.• The music used becomes faster or deeper nearer the end of

the two minutes – to create tension.• The opening two minutes is used to instil fear in the audience,

this is done through the actions of the characters.