Distinct

Settings

The settings for a horror movie are normally dark, run down, desolate and secluded. This increases the fear and the tension that the film will create. Some are set in specific buildings such as a castle or a hospital. Typically events happen at night time when the vision is limited; this is what helped to create the tension and the uncomfortable vibes that the character and audience is feeling. As the character is not able to see far or clearly it makes them feel more vulnerable and scared as they cannot see things that may or may not be around them. The victim is usually isolated when they are being attacked making escape and help from other less probable.

Technical codes

•        close ups to show facial expressions

•        twin mid shot to show two characters

•        over the shoulder

•        point of view

•        tracking

•        special effects

•        natural lighting

•        torch

•        candle

•        if the scene incorporates fire then this may be unsterilized as a light source

The camera work in horror films tend to be fast and snappy to create a specific atmosphere within the film. The lighting that is put alongside the camera work gives a visual interpretation of the theme.

  

Iconography

There are certain items we expect to see within a horror film. Firstly instruments that can cause harm to the person, such as a knife. Death is something that we expect to see throughout the film. We also expect to see a chase of some sort. This helps to escalate the fear of the audience. We expect to see blood. We also expect to see dark colours such as blacks, greys and reds which symbolise fear, danger and the unknown. We also expect to see a build up to the attack using music that makes the audience feel unnerved and uncomfortable. We may also see children’s toys. This takes the concept of something so innocent as a child and shows them in a different light, especially toys that speak or have music associated with them.

Narrative structure

Equilibrium- this is the clam stage where everything is as it should be.

Event that disrupts the equilibrium – this is something that happens which disrupts the peace and causes a disturbance within the equilibrium.

Recognition- this is when the event has been recognised

Attempt to resolve the problem- this is when the characters try to restore the equilibrium

New equilibrium- this is the stage when the problem has been resolved however the lives of the characters are not the same as they were but as close to ‘normal’ as possible.

Character structure

Victim- the victim is usually a young female who is attractive and is seen as weak and vulnerable, who may kindle a love interest with the hero.

Hero- ‘macho’, strong, shows no fear

Villain- typically male and has some sort of discise such as a mask and tends to have a troubled past.

Themes

Thriller

Gore

sifi

Psychological/ psychological thriller

Mad scientist

Mutations

Supernatural

Historical

Fantasy

Slasher

Aliens

Zombies

Vampires

Comedy

Futuristic

Action

Animals

Classic horror

Religion

Most themes are inspired by an event that has happened such as the world wars. Early horrors such as Dracula were inspired by legends that have passed down through generations. With the advances in technology films such as let me in and paranormal activities have become huge successes. The technology and special effects mean that the horror is more realistic making the film more frightening and unpredictable.