Horror movies are all about suspense and anticipation. We go to the theater hoping to be scared out of our minds, and we love it when the trailers give us a little taste of what’s in store. But what do we expect to see in horror movies? In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most common tropes in horror films and discuss what viewers typically expect from these movies.
What are the Elements Found in Horror Films?
Horror movies are known for having several features that attract audiences. These elements can be classified into three main categories: setting, character, and plot.
The setting in horror movies is often dark and gloomy, with an atmosphere that promotes suspense and fear. In addition, the characters in these films are often archetypes who fit into certain stereotypes. For example, we might see a group of teenagers being chased by a madman with a chainsaw or an adult who is trying to protect her young children from deadly monsters. Finally, the plot of horror movies usually revolves around some sort of threat or danger that is lurking in the shadows. This could be anything from vampires and zombies to demonic possession and serial killers.
Here are the other elements found in Horror films:
- Dark: The dark is one of the most common elements found in Horror movies. Whether it is about supernatural beings or a psychopath on the loose, adding darkness in its setting is sure to make the movie a lot scarier.
- Characters: Horror movies are all about the characters. In fact, these films tend to focus on one or two protagonists who are up against whatever evil is present in the movie. We also have our archetypes, such as The Jock, The Nerd, The Rebel, and so on, which help us quickly understand each character’s role in the movie.
- Plot: The plot is usually the driving force in a Horror movie. We all know that we are going to see some scary scenes, but it is the plot that will keep us on the edge of our seats as we wait to find out what happens next.
- Threats: One of the most common threats found in horror movies is the presence of supernatural beings such as vampires, werewolves, ghosts, witches, and so on. However, there are also other threats that can be just as scary, such as serial killers, madmen with chainsaws, and monsters.
- Fear of Death: Having this fear is a unique way of making the film more engaging and thrilling, wherein the directors build anticipation by forcing the characters to avoid death. And by doing so, it gives the audience a weird feeling of fear and tension.
- Scary Music: What’s a Horror film without scary music? Scary music is an excellent way to build fear and anticipation in the viewers, and it is one of the most common techniques by directors.
- Blood and Gore: Blood and gore are also common elements in Horror movies. In fact, many people watch these films specifically to see all the blood and guts that are shown on screen.
What Viewers Typically Expect from Horror Movies
Now that we know about some of the elements found in horror movies, let’s take a look at what viewers typically expect from these films.
First and foremost, horror movies are meant to scare us. They are designed to make our hearts race and give us nightmares long after we leave the theater. In addition, horror movies often feature a lot of violence and gore. While not all horror films are rated R, most of them tend to be on the graphic side, which means that they may not be suitable for everyone.
Finally, horror movies often have a plot twist or two that catches us off guard. We might think we know what is going to happen, but the filmmakers are sure to throw in some surprises along the way.
Notable Horror Movies
Horror films have been a major part of the movie industry, and there are several films produced under this genre that has become iconic.
Here are some of the most iconic Horror movies of all time:
- Nosferatu: This movie is known for being one of the pioneers that set the standard for Horror movies. It was released in 1922 and told the story of a vampire who terrorizes a small town.
- Night of the Living Dead: This is among the most popular zombie movies of all time, and it was released in 1968. The plot is about a group of people who are trapped in a farmhouse while zombies attack them from outside.
- The Exorcist: This movie is about a young girl who is possessed by a demon, and it was released in 1973. It is considered one of the most terrifying movies ever made, and it has since become a cult classic.
- Halloween: This movie came out in 1978 and told the story of Michael Myers, who murders his sister on Halloween night and then goes on a killing spree.
- A Nightmare on Elm Street: This movie was released in 1984, and it tells the story of Freddy Krueger, who terrorizes people in their dreams.
- The Silence of the Lambs: This psychological thriller was released in 1991, and it stars Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter, a cannibalistic serial killer.
- The Blair Witch Project: This movie was released in 1999 and is often credited with starting the found footage genre. It showcases the story of three students who disappeared while investigating the legend of the Blair Witch.
- Saw: This movie came out in 2004 and revolved around a group of people who are held captive and forced to play a game of survival.
- Paranormal Activity: This movie was released in 2007, and it is often cited as one of the most successful independent films ever made. It showcases the story of a young couple who are haunted by a spirit that is determined to drive them out of their home.
- The Conjuring: This movie was released in 2013, and it tells the story of a family who is terrorized by spirits that are invading their home.
- It: This movie was released in 2017, and it tells the story of a group of children terrorized by an evil clown named Pennywise.
While there are many more horror movies out there, these are some of the most iconic and well-known ones. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or not, it’s hard to deny that horror movies are a big part of pop culture.
Final Thoughts
Horror movies are designed to scare us, and they often feature a lot of violence and gore. While not all horror films are rated R, most of them tend to be on the graphic side, which means that they may not be suitable for everyone. Finally, horror movies often have a plot twist or two that catches us off guard.