Props ANALYSIS

Introduction• In the supernatural sub genre of horror audiences tend to be shown

scenes which are true to every day life, though by analysing many different films it becomes clear that there are a some props which are more likely to be seen compared to others to the point where they become iconographic. These will be analysed in the following presentation.

Religious objectsReligious objects such as bible’s, rosary’s and ancient religious objects (for example a treasure box) are commonly displayed in supernatural horrors due to the fact the supernatural presence has usually originated from a religion itself. Certain props are often used within the plot to represent the passage which the supernatural force has travelled through which is why it is so common to see these props used in this particular horror sub-genre. Religious texts such as the bible are often present while the characters are carrying out an exorcism. Exorcisms are often what these films result in as it is conventional for the supernatural presence to take over one of the characters. During exorcisms a religious figure tends to read passages from the bible and hold up items such as a crucifix or a rosary to drive the demon out which is when they are usually seen by the audience.

Children’s toysAside from religious objects, children’s toys are also a commonly used prop choice within the supernatural sub genre. This is because the audience are being shown something which holds the conventions of innocence and happiness being turned into something highly disturbing and potentially evil which has proven to be an effective way in scaring audiences. The type of children’s toys which are conventionally shown tend to be more old-fashioned dolls as they can tend to be quite life like which would make the audience shocked and afraid. In some films dolls have been used as a passage for evil to travel through, though it is more common to see them placed in the child characters room’s, emphasising their youth though adding a slightly spooky look to the scene.

CandlesCandles are shown in a range of different horror sub-genres, though they are particularly effective when used in supernatural horrors. The idea that they don’t give much light is often used to frighten audiences when characters are trying desperately to see what is in front of them. This can be effective in building tension, along with the fact candles can easily be blown out which adds to this factor. In addition to this, candles being used as sources of light is a very old tradition which originates back from long before there was electricity, so again this idea of reminding the audience of past ways of life is used to shock and frighten them, making them feel distanced from reality in a haunting way.