Horror Codes and Conventions

Horror films are usual associated with isolated locations. This could be an abandoned cabin in the woods, deserted houses, haunted houses, graveyards or basements. They are associated with these locations because they are all things that add to the scary atmopshere of the film. For example, if a horror film was set in a normal house on a busy street it would not seem as scary because it would seem to the audience that if anything did happen there would be people around to help. However, if it was set in a deserted house then the audience would feel more on edge because they know that if something was the happen they would not be able to seek help from anybody because there is no one around. This adds to the scary atmosphere of the films.

·Primary target audience- male, 16-24

·15 or 18 certification (promises of pleasure)-debates on passive consumption

·Extensive use of Narrative enigmas

·Slow pace of Editing, builds tension. Long takes

Codes and Conventions:

·Three act narrative structure

·Predictable narrative content (follows format)

·Clear binary oppositions e.g. good vs. evil

·Use of low key lighting, Use of CGI, FX

·Dominant representation of gender: Male villain, The Female victim

·Extensive use of close up, Point of view shots, Low angle shots

·Young/ teenage characters

·Use of hand-held camera: audience identification/realism.

Associations with a horror film:

• Isolated house
• Dark Lighting
• Murder
• Gore
• Scary music
• Villains and Victims

Target Audience:

• Ages from 15-25
• Male audience if there are a lot of gory/ violent scenes
• Exciting and thrilling with dramatic scenes
• Pleasure of being scared
• Women often play victim which attracts the men