Representation and Stereotypes in Horror Movies

Horror movies have a long history of racial dynamics and stereotyping. From the early films that depicted the lynching of a black man to the portrayal of black characters as comic relief, horror films have often reflected and perpetuated racist attitudes. The trope of black characters being the first to die and the intellectual superiority of white characters is prevalent. However, there have been shifts in the genre, such as the casting of a black lead in 'Night of the Living Dead' in 1968, which challenged racial dynamics. More recent horror films like 'Get Out' and 'Blackula' subvert traditional narratives and address racial tensions in unique ways.