Horror genre Poppy

Conventions of a horror genre Conventions of a horror film are things such as isolated settings for example abandoned houses or hospitals with dark history. These kinds of locations are useful as they add to the gloomy, creepy effect for the purpose of the film to scare people. Also the use of weapons is key, things such as chainsaws, knives scissors ect. Also typical characters are used.

Purpose The purpose of these conventions are to frighten viewers and make them panic. Its also to make the audience be alarmed as well as captivate them to carry on watching by entertaining them. They make people remember and bring to mind there hidden worst fears and usually include a scary shocking final part to the film to leave the audience in shock.

Audience The effect of horror films is to effect the audience in a way to leave them shaken up, scared and jumpy. Most horror films do this perfectly and leave the audience feeling vulnerable and scared of the unknown. For some viewers it may lead to nightmares which they brought on themselves by watching this genre of film. This audience enjoy the thrill of the unknown.

Themes Good vs Evil Depression Childhood issues Revenge Supernatural Beyond death Science gone bad Zombie Apocalypse Nightmares Madness Insanity Lust Envy Suicide ‘self-consciousness’ – making you question what is real and not.

Typical characters Typically in horror films there is usually a hero who saves the day or a victim who is venerable. A villain is usually involved who causes problems which could be some one such as ghosts, demons, stalkers. Also there is usually a use of weapons such as knives, guns, axes which are used to either kill characters or show that they could be used for that reason to scare not only the characters but the audience too. Sometimes in horror films there can be creepy scary children involved such as dead dolls, possessed children or mental patients whom usually get killed or are doing the killing. Police officers can also be used, they can be both good or bad as they can be in on the plan/killing or there to stop it and save the day, this adds to the thrill of whether they die or survive.