Horror in Pop Culture (Part 1): How Movies and TV Shape Our Fears
The allure of horror has fascinated audiences for over a century, with movies and television shows at the forefront of this fascination. These media are powerful tools in shaping collective fears, as they provide a shared experience that can tap into deep-seated anxieties and societal concerns. A book can be written about horror in movies and cinema, but here in this article, we are to explore just the tip of the iceberg for future use and referral.
The Evolution of Horror in Cinema
From the silent era’s gothic tales to the current surge of psychological thrillers, horror movies have continuously evolved, reflecting the fears and anxieties of their time. Early horror films like Nosferatu (1922) and Frankenstein (1931) played on the fear of the unknown and the monstrous. These films tapped into societal fears of science and the supernatural, portraying monsters that were both frightening and pitiable.
As the decades progressed, horror cinema began to mirror more contemporary fears. The atomic age of the 1950s brought about giant monster movies like Godzilla (1954), reflecting anxieties about nuclear technology. The 1960s and 1970s saw a shift towards psychological horror and the breakdown of social norms, with films like Psycho (1960) and The Exorcist (1973), which explored themes of identity, mental illness, and the supernatural.
After the 1980s, horror cinema diversified, exploring new themes and styles while continuing to reflect societal anxieties.
1990s: Meta-Horror and Psychological Thrillers
The 1990s brought a wave of self-aware horror, epitomized by Scream (1996), which deconstructed the slasher genre while delivering genuine scares. This meta-horror trend acknowledged the clichés of its predecessors, creating a fresh and ironic take on horror tropes.
Simultaneously, psychological thrillers like The Silence of the Lambs (1991) gained popularity, focusing on the minds of both heroes and villains. These films delved into the darkness of human psychology, exploring fears rooted in the real world, such as serial killers and mental illness.
2000s: Torture Porn and Found Footage
The early 2000s saw the rise of “torture porn” with films like Saw (2004) and Hostel (2005). These movies pushed the boundaries of gore and sadism, reflecting post-9/11 anxieties and a fascination with physical suffering and survival.
The found footage genre also gained prominence, beginning with The Blair Witch Project (1999) and continuing with Paranormal Activity (2007). These films utilized a documentary-style approach to create a sense of realism and immediacy, tapping into fears of the unknown and the supernatural.
2010s: Elevated Horror and Social Commentary
The 2010s brought a renaissance in horror, often referred to as “elevated horror.” Filmmakers like Jordan Peele, Ari Aster, and Robert Eggers created thought-provoking, critically acclaimed horror films that tackled complex social and psychological themes.
Jordan Peele’s Get Out (2017) is a prime example, blending horror with social commentary on race relations and systemic racism. Similarly, Ari Aster’s Hereditary (2018) and Midsommar (2019) explored family trauma, grief, and cult dynamics with a meticulous, art-house approach.
This era also saw a resurgence of supernatural horror, with films like The Conjuring (2013) and It Follows (2014) combining classic scares with modern sensibilities. These films often revisited traditional horror themes, such as haunted houses and cursed objects, but with a fresh, contemporary twist.
2020s and Beyond: Expanding Boundaries
As we move further into the 2020s, horror continues to evolve and expand its boundaries. The COVID-19 pandemic has influenced recent horror narratives, with films like Host (2020) incorporating the realities of quarantine and virtual communication into their scares.
Additionally, the increasing diversity of voices in horror filmmaking has led to more varied and inclusive stories. Films like His House (2020) and Candyman (2021) bring unique cultural perspectives to the genre, exploring themes of displacement, trauma, and historical injustices.
Horror on TV: The Rise of the Serial Scare
Television, with its serialized format, has uniquely contributed to the horror genre. Anthology series like The Twilight Zone (1959–1964) and Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955–1965) delivered weekly doses of fear, often reflecting Cold War paranoia and existential dread. These shows capitalized on the ability to explore different types of horror, from science fiction to supernatural, all within a concise, impactful narrative.
In recent years, horror TV series like American Horror Story and Stranger Things have captivated audiences with their blend of nostalgia, suspense, and intricate storytelling. These series have the luxury of developing characters and plotlines over multiple episodes and seasons, allowing for a deeper exploration of themes and a prolonged sense of dread.
Shaping Societal Fears
Horror movies and TV shows not only reflect societal fears but also shape them. For instance, the 1980s saw a rise in slasher films like Halloween (1978) and A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), which capitalized on fears of suburban vulnerability and the idea that danger could lurk within the safest environments. These films often played on the anxieties of teenage audiences, intertwining coming-of-age narratives with gruesome horrors.
In the modern era, horror has increasingly tackled social issues directly. Films like Get Out (2017) and Us (2019), directed by Jordan Peele, use horror to explore themes of race, identity, and societal inequities. Similarly, TV shows like Black Mirror delve into the potential horrors of technology and its impact on human relationships and privacy.
The Impact on Our Psyche
The impact of horror on our psyche is profound. These films and shows provide a safe space for audiences to confront their fears, experience catharsis, and even gain a sense of empowerment. By facing fictional horrors, viewers can process real-life anxieties in a controlled environment. This therapeutic aspect of horror is often overlooked but is a significant reason for the genre’s enduring popularity.
Moreover, horror’s ability to bring people together cannot be understated. The shared experience of watching a scary movie or TV show can foster a sense of community and collective fear. The cultural phenomenon of discussing and dissecting these narratives, whether through water-cooler conversations or online forums, further strengthens horror’s role in shaping our fears and societal narratives.
In conclusion, horror movies and television shows are not just entertainment but also mirrors reflecting our deepest fears and anxieties. By exploring these fears, we gain insight into the societal issues of our time and the human condition itself. As the genre continues evolving, it will undoubtedly keep probing the dark corners of our psyche, illuminating the fears that lurk within.
Now, what about you? Tell us about a movie or series that kept you awake after you watched it!
