Film Appreciation Feb 22, 2025 12:28:45 PM Full View Productions 4 min read
In this week’s film appreciation blog, Full View Productions Creative Vice President Charles Ashley shares a personal perspective about what makes horror the ultimate movie genre. As a longtime fan of horror and a storyteller, Charles always been fascinated by the way this genre can evoke such intense emotions. Unlike any other category of film, horror has the power to tap into our primal fears while also challenging our perceptions of reality, morality, and even our own psyche.
Horror isn’t just about fear; it’s about storytelling in its purest form and applies universal themes and techniques that can transfer across an array of genres and medium. Let's dive into the mechanics of what makes horror an effective storytelling method—from its psychological weight to its cinematic techniques.
A Deep Dive into Horror Storytelling
Horror has been a cinematic staple for over a century, evolving from the eerie shadows of Nosferatu (1922) to the immersive psychological terror of Talk to Me (2023). But what makes a truly great horror film? Beyond the jump scares and eerie soundtracks, the best horror movies master layered storytelling that lingers with audiences long after the credits roll. Let’s explore the key elements that define the perfect horror movie and celebrate the genre’s ability to innovate and terrify in equal measure.
1. Atmosphere: The Art of Unease
The foundation of any horror film is its atmosphere. The sense of dread should settle in before a single drop of blood is spilled. Films like Hereditary (2018) masterfully build tension through unsettling cinematography and a creeping score that keeps audiences on edge. The best horror doesn’t just scare—it lingers.
2. Storytelling Through Visuals
Great horror filmmakers understand that what is unseen is often scarier than what is shown. Robert Eggers’ The Witch (2015) and Ari Aster’s Midsommar (2019) both utilize slow, deliberate framing to trap the audience in their hauntingly beautiful nightmares. Much like Nosferatu, which used shadows to create terror without excessive violence, these films rely on imagery to tell deeper stories about grief, isolation, and human fragility.
3. Psychological Depth & Emotional Weight
The most memorable horror films don’t just scare you—they stay with you. The Babadook (2014) uses its monster as a metaphor for grief, while It Follows (2014) turns paranoia into a supernatural curse. These films prove that horror is at its best when it resonates beyond the screen, forcing audiences to reflect on their own fears and experiences.
4. Innovation in Horror Tropes
Every genre has its clichés, but the best horror films twist them into something new. Get Out (2017) redefined psychological horror by weaving in social commentary, while Barbarian (2022) subverted expectations at every turn. Just as Nosferatu set the stage for generations of vampire films, modern horror keeps evolving, making old fears feel fresh.
5. The Role of Sound and Silence
One of the most overlooked aspects of horror is sound design. Films like A Quiet Place (2018) weaponize silence, turning the absence of sound into a nerve-wracking experience. Meanwhile, Sinister (2012) uses an eerie, almost inhuman soundtrack to create a deeply unsettling mood. The best horror movies make you fear not just what you see, but what you hear—or don’t hear.
6. The Use of Humor
The one element of horror that puts the cherry on the cake is when humor is used to re-introduce humanity to an otherwise lost situation. Though not all takes on this genre use the opportunity, it lends to great content even in itself with spinoffs like the Scary Movie Franchise (2001-2006) and A Haunted House (2013). Renowned Horror director Jordan Peele has his roots in comedy and has a quote around the connection “The difference between comedy and horror is the music…these films show us the best way to deal with our fears.” So what is it that keeps you up at night?
Join the Discussion: What’s Your Favorite Horror and Why?
A truly great horror movie is more than just a series of scares—it’s an experience. From building an eerie atmosphere to crafting visually stunning narratives, carrying emotional weight, innovating tropes, and mastering sound design, horror remains one of the most exciting storytelling mediums in cinema. Just as Nosferatu laid the groundwork over a century ago, today’s horror films continue to push boundaries and redefine fear for new generations.
Horror is deeply personal—what terrifies one person might leave another unfazed. Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss what makes horror the perfect movie genre!
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