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Why Theory

Contemporary Horror

Oct 14, 2024
The hosts explore the evolution of contemporary horror, discussing iconic films from 'Night of the Living Dead' to 'It Follows.' They analyze themes of monstrosity, societal reflections, and casting choices that highlight racial tensions. The character of Jack Torrance in 'The Shining' is examined alongside its unique cinematic techniques. They delve into the effective horror of unseen monsters in 'Blair Witch Project' and 'Paranormal Activity,' while also linking horror narratives to cultural critiques like ageism and feminism in media.
01:47:28

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The evolution of horror films illustrates a shift from external monsters to internal struggles reflecting individual psychological issues and societal fears.
  • Contemporary horror movies often critique social themes such as consumerism and identity commodification, highlighting broader cultural anxieties within their narratives.

Deep dives

Exploration of Horror Subgenres

The podcast delves into various horror subgenres, highlighting significant films from the 60s to today. Key titles discussed include 'Night of the Living Dead' and 'Carrie', with an emphasis on how these films explore themes of monstrosity, social commentary, and the psychological underpinnings of horror. The hosts also touch on possession films, particularly how 'The Exorcist' has influenced the genre and contributed to the depiction of horror tied to religious themes. Their discussion captures how different eras in horror reflect societal fears, tying in psychoanalytic interpretations of characters and narratives.

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