Genre Research: Horror

    The genre we will first be highlighting is Horror. This blog will discuss the common CLAMPS, CAMS, Editing, and Sounds featured in this genre. Highlighting the conventions and styles of executing this genre.

Common CAMS found In Horror!

• Point of View (POV): This shot is intended to resemble a character's perspective, giving the viewer the impression that they are viewing the situation from their point of view. Point-of-view views are commonly employed in horror movies to evoke a feeling of suspense and immediacy, as though the viewer is experiencing the events directly. This method can heighten the suspense and foster a stronger sense of character empathy in the viewer.
• Handheld: This type of shot gives the video a more dynamic and unsteady feel since the camera is not fixed on a tripod. Handheld shots are frequently used in horror movies to evoke a sense of unpredictability and chaos. The overall sensation of dread and suspense can be increased by the shaky camera by adding to a sense of unpredictability and unease.
• Dutch Angle (Dutch Tilt): To produce a diagonal composition, one might tilt the camera at an angle. This method is frequently employed in horror movies to provide a bewildering and unnerving atmosphere. The distorted viewpoint may give the viewer a disoriented and uneasy feeling, which heightens the suspense and terror in the scene.

Common Editing In Horror!

Pacing and Rhythm: To manage the narrative's speed, horror films frequently combine slow and fast-paced editing. While rapid cuts and edits can be employed for unexpected shocks and surprises, slow pacing can be used to create tension. The way the tempo is changed adds to the general apprehension and unpredictable feeling.

Jump cuts: These sudden changes in perspective between shots are known to have a startling and confusing effect. This method is frequently applied to accentuate the effect of a scene in dramatic or terrifying situations.

Montage and Parallel Editing: Montage editing uses a quick succession of pictures to show how time or events are passing. Conversely, parallel editing depicts two or more actions taking place at the same time. 

Common Sound In Horror!

Silence and Ambient Sounds: To create a spooky and unnerving atmosphere, horror films frequently use ambient sounds like creaking floors, whispers in the distance, or howling winds. A moment of dread or the abrupt lack of sound can also be emphasized or used to heighten the suspense before a scare.

Jump Scares: Jump scares, often known as quick, sharp noises, are a common feature in horror movies. To shock the audience and elicit a visceral response, they may include loud bangs, shouts, or other startling noises.

Music and Score: A musical score can effectively establish the tone and heighten the suspense in a horror movie. Atonal compositions, discordant chords, and menacing tunes can all evoke anxiety. The overall fear is enhanced by the usage of string instruments, electronic noises, and unusual musical approaches.

Some of my personal favorite examples!

    The elements of this genre are captivating to me because horror films are excellent at examining and taking advantage of our worst worries and concerns. This genre offers a visceral and frequently cathartic experience by presenting audiences with the unknown, the supernatural, or the macabre. Being a basic feeling, fear can raise awareness and engagement levels in viewers in ways that other genres might find difficult to accomplish.

    The aspects of the genre that I find unappealing are the frequent heavy financial and time commitments associated with the employment of prosthetics, makeup, and special effects in horror films. Realistic monsters, alien creatures, or gory scenes require highly skilled artists, state-of-the-art tools, and meticulous design. This may result in a sharp rise in production expenses, which would make horror films more expensive for filmmakers working on a limited budget.