EPISODE ONE: The Science Behind the Scare
By Addison McCroskey
Hosted by Addison McCroskey

Horror movies. You love ’em or you hate ’em.

Additionally, when watching a horror film, there is control over both the situation and the viewing experience. Unlike the real world, people can press pause when a situation in a film becomes too dire to handle. So, this gives those who do enjoy horror a sense of relief and comfort within their fear. That is, knowing that at any given moment they could turn it off.

This can help maintain healthy anxiety levels and promote healthy coping strategies. Sometimes viewing movies such as these can function as a distraction from other emotions besides fear. Even so, being fearful of a movie does not necessarily make watching it unenjoyable.

Psychological Horror’s Target Audience

Most types of horror can be scary, but psychological horror specifically tends to hook analytical audiences, and provide a sense of curiosity and hunger to identify the plot and characters’ utmost intentions. Horror entertainment such as this can satisfy our constant investigation of the human psyche, and how we relate it to ourselves.

Many people (myself included) are fascinated by what human nature is truly capable of. Research indicates that those who appreciate this genre of horror tend to question mental phenomena, and how mental health can affect the body’s functions. Studies show that those who seek out this specific genre of horror tend to wield more investigative and inquisitive traits.

When it comes to horror films, there is a large spectrum of movies to select from depending on what you’re in the mood for. For some, psychological horror is a thrilling experience. Realistically, sensation seekers tend to enjoy the new and intense experiences that come with lack of control in the film. On the other hand, individuals who are of a more empathetic nature tend to enjoy these movies less. This divide makes fight-or-flight experiences easier for some than others.

Psychological horror explores the anxieties and vulnerability behind the human brain and how flawed thinking can occur when not in the correct state of mind. For example, an unsuspecting woman being chased down a dark corridor may instead of exiting the building back herself into a dead end. ultimately leading to her demise. This can cause the audience to subconsciously root for the woman, yet again relating back to the ideology of empathy and paranoia.

Elements of Psychological Horror

Some additional topics in psychological horror include madness, anxiety, self-doubt, and emotional turmoil. Supposing you put too much thought into the storyline of any other horror, you might find that the plot itself is made of glass. Psychological horror plots on the other hand are often less identifiable.

Some of the most frequently used tropes in psychological horror are a deteriorating mental state, loss of control, or newfound hallucination. These are typically driven by emotional manipulation or when tragedy strikes.

On the topic of tragedy, some writers construct films solely based off true events or events that could take place, in an attempt to scare the audience further. Nonetheless, an audience may not always be aware that the film is based on a true event because of its severity. This can be an adaptation, realistic fiction or even an extension of a real event. Some prime examples of this may include The Conjuring (2013), The Exorcist (1973), Jaws (1975) and Poltergeist (1982) to name a few.

While the film industry has had a lengthy run of high caliber horror cinematography, a person must admit that the recent decline of quality within these movies has been devastating…. Will these motion pictures ever return to their previous state of perfection? Or will they soon develop backwards with a more refined and modern touch?

Subjectivity of Horror

Horror is subjective, meaning certain types of horror may appeal to some but not others. There are several factors that can influence a person’s tolerance towards distinct types of horror films: from gore to possession, slow-burning mystery to full-on slasher.

Another way horror films may appeal to an audience is by using diverse types of media and special effects within the film. This may include CGI, makeup, prosthetics, gore, and many others.

Although some films have limited budgeting, mechanical effects are not necessarily the most blood-curdling aspect of an excellent quality horror film. Each film holds its own story.

Furthermore, there are crucial moments of suspense that can tie a scene together if done correctly. These small thought-provoking details can make or break important scenes.

Some prime examples of this are in Madhouse (2004), when Psychiatric intern Clark Stevens (Joshua Leonard) completes his descent into madness. His coworker turned lover Lisa, (Jordan Ladd) had not yet realized this until after he had already begun killing those around him. In a turn of events, when Clark has Lisa cornered on the deadliest floor of the building, she pleads for him to spare her and for his affection once more. Clark is stunned, and sent into a state of shock. Lisa manages to unarm him and escape.

As well as in Silence Of The Lambs (1991) when Clarise Starling (Jodie Foster) enters the grim and hideous home of Buffalo BIll. (Ted Levine) It is in this house which Clarice must find a beaten woman being held hostage. To her surprise, the entirety of the home is pitch black and covered in filth. The complete darkness combine with the disturbing surroundings is enough to petrify Mrs Starling.

Key Elements of Horror

A few key elements that make these films memorable are the use of dramatic irony, growing tension, and a steady turning point or change of morality. Regardless of what you are shaken by it is undeniable that a good amount of suspense in a film is desirable.

On a different note, some horror films stray from the everyday: exposition, climax, and resolution type storyline. This may include completely different plot elements in many different orders.

But where do jump scares come into play? Most of the time they don’t. They’re far too easy. A broad number of jump scares end up being dragged along in a scene making it blatantly obvious of what is to come. Knowing when to use them is what makes them truly effective.