Conventions of Horror

Isaac Randall

SettingA typical horror film is usually set in abandoned or lonely places and normally far away from civilization. The setting normally has some sort of backstory that usually links to the narrative in some way. Most horror films are usually set at night, giving a scarier feel due to low light and visibility of the main character, making them seem more vulnerable. Some examples of setting could be:

An abandoned house

A forest (The Blair Witch Project)

Hospitals (Gothika)

Sound Sound is very important in horror films as it is used to build suspense and non-diegetic sound used such as bats, the win, screaming and thunder are familiar to the audience. Music is used to create a specific mood.

The notes used a usually held for long periods of time with short notes used for contrast.

Changes in volume and pitch are also regular.

The tone of voice used by actors is usually low level to portray a sense of fear.

High volume screaming is used also often.

Violins and screeching sounds are used often

PropsProps help the audience to identify the genre further. Many props have a connotation of spirits. Many props used in horror films are:

Knives (Psycho) or Chainsaws (Texas chainsaw Massacre)

Fake blood

Christian or holy objects (The Exorcist)

Dolls (Annabelle)

Camera Work Shot types are important when creating horror

films as they can be used to provoke a certain feeling and response from viewers.

Close ups - used to show the actors reactionFast moving shots - to create a sense of confusion Point of view shots - to seem as if the audience is

looking through the eyes of the characterHigh and low angle shots - to show powerRough ‘handheld’ shots – makes the footage seem

more realistic and less professional

CharactersThe Protagonist - is usually a girl and is the smartest

and most morally standing of the group.

Sex appeal – this role is often filled by a promiscuous women who is normally the first to be killed and to expose her body.

The irritating character – this character is often one of the first to die however the audience tends to be happy about it due to their behavior beforehand.

The protagonist – This is the ‘bad guy’ of the film and is normally reviled at the end. They are often killed or left wounded.