Aice Mediastudies: Genre Research Blog Activity

Overview:

We have been tasked to do a research activity based on the near pod lesson that we learned in class. The information in the near pod covered all the information we as students need to know. Genre is a big part of media studies and is what helps characterize a new film that is coming out. This helps reach the targeted audience and helps with marketing. The genre I have chosen for this activity is none other than Horror which seems fit since we are in the month of October.

Horror

Content

Horror films typically include things meant to scare or shock the audience, creating strong feelings that last long after watching. Common themes in this genre involve supernatural events, like ghosts or monsters, that tap into basic fears. These movies often explore psychological terror, where the real horror is in the minds of the characters, showing feelings of paranoia and madness. Usually, horror stories feature a main character, often an everyday person, who must face a frightening villain. This villain can be a killer, a ghost, or even something from nature, representing fears that reflect society's worries. Horror films often build a sense of dread, using suspenseful pacing and surprises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The genre also plays on fears of darkness and the unknown, using sound and visuals to create tension and provoke strong reactions. In the end, horror films are both entertaining and a way for people to explore complex emotions, helping viewers face their deepest fears in a safe space.

Production Techniques

Horror films often use different production techniques to create a chilling and scary atmosphere. This includes dim lighting, which makes scenes feel darker and more unsettling, along with creepy sound effects and suspenseful music that help build tension throughout the movie. The camera angles and editing are also very important; fast cuts can make scenes feel more intense, while point-of-view shots help the audience feel like they are part of the action, seeing things from the character's perspective. Costume design and makeup are used to create realistic looks for the characters, showing fear and horror in a way that feels believable. For example, makeup can make someone look injured or terrified, adding to the overall impact of the film. Additionally, CGI can be used to create supernatural events or creatures that wouldn’t be possible in real life. This technology helps to create fear and suspense, making viewers feel more scared and excited as they watch. Overall, these production techniques work together to pull the audience into the story and keep them on the edge of their seats.

How is the Genre Marketed

Horror films are usually marketed with exciting trailers, eye-catching posters, and strong social media campaigns that focus on creating suspense and fear. These marketing strategies often target specific groups, especially teens and young adults, who are typically the biggest audience for horror movies. To grab their attention, marketers use thrilling images and intense clips that show just enough to make viewers curious about the story. Releasing these films around Halloween is a common tactic because many people enjoy scary movies during that time, making it easier to attract larger audiences. Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter are also important for promoting horror films, as they allow fans to share their excitement and talk about the movie with their friends. This online buzz can help spread the word even further, encouraging more people to watch the film. Overall, these marketing techniques work together to make horror films popular and draw in viewers who are looking for a thrilling experience.

Samples:

The Conjuring(2013) is a strong example of a horror movie that uses supernatural elements and tells a scary story based on real-life paranormal investigators, Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film creates a spooky atmosphere with smart use of lighting and sound, which builds feelings of fear and tension. For instance, one memorable scene features the family playing a game of hide and seek in their dark basement, where a malevolent spirit suddenly appears, causing panic and dread. The plot follows a family that faces frightening events in their farmhouse, which fits with common horror themes of being alone and feeling vulnerable. The marketing of the film highlights that it is based on true events, tapping into the audience's curiosity and fear of the unknown, making it a memorable part of the horror genre.

IT (2017) is a good example of a horror movie that uses supernatural elements and tells a scary story based on Stephen King's book. The film features a creepy clown named Pennywise, who feeds on the fears of children in the town of Derry. The atmosphere is full of tension and fear, especially in scenes where the kids see Pennywise in dark and spooky places, like when one character, Georgie, meets the clown in a storm drain. This moment shows the fear of the unknown because the clown tricks him with promises of fun. The movie also looks at themes of friendship and bravery as a group of kids, called the Losers' Club, come together to face their fears. IT uses common horror ideas, like isolation, since the kids often find themselves alone against this evil clown. Overall, the mix of supernatural horror and relatable characters makes the movie stand out in the horror genre.

Examples

A Quiet Place (2017)