 |
| Image from Popcorn Monster http://www.popcornmonster.com/2009/09/27/top-10-classic-horror-films/ |
Horror Movies exist in a highly criticized genre of entertainment. Opinion is widely ranging and fascinating because of the implications. A person's choice of horror films can be indicative of what that person fears, and how their imagination works.
My favorite horror films are the ones that leave a lot to the imagination. A dark corridor and a growling noise is infinitely more scary to me than to watch than an array of special effects that realistically (or unrealistically) portray a demon, monster, or grotesque death.
Looking at the genre of the supernatural (See! Didn't I say preferences are indicative of a person's fears?) I will compare and contrast the techniques used to design an experience. I will look at the movies Paranormal Activity and Final Destination.
Paranormal Activity is filmed as if it is a home movie. The effects are limited to footprints in baby powder, a door slamming, and loud noises among others that are equally simple. The build up of fear is created by the back story, the progression of small happenings, and the seemingly real style of movie. With so much left to the imagination, a mind that is creative can build on it's own fears.
Final Destination is a movie full of special effects. Crazy things happen again and again. The effects are realistic and convincing, and the pace of the movie is instant and consistent. There is no need to be creative or use your imagination because every detail is laid out.
I loved Paranormal activity. It was a movie designed with an imaginative person in mind. Final Destination was not designed to scare ME, but I imagine there are others who would respond to these movies in the opposite way that I do. Fear is designed with it's audience in mind. "What's your favorite scary movie?" (Scary Movie, 2000).
Trailor for Paranormal Activity
http://www.popcornmonster.com/2009/09/27/top-10-classic-horror-films/
A fun site!
No comments:
Post a Comment