Why Theory Horror Film
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Sep 16, 2024 Dive into the eerie world of classical horror films, where life grapples with the beyond. The hosts dissect iconic movies like 'Frankenstein' and 'Psycho,' exploring their psychological impacts and societal reflections. Discover the artistic intricacies of 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari,' along with how sound and visuals shape our fears. The evolution of horror through remakes like 'Godzilla' reveals complex themes of monstrosity. Finally, examine the genre's enduring presence in modern cinema amidst changing tastes.
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Classical Genres Defined by Antagonisms
- Classical film genres are defined by central antagonisms, not just iconography like ghosts or horses.
- Horror uniquely explores the antagonism between life and the beyond, especially death.
Horror's Balance: Dread vs. Comedy
- Horror films balance between evoking dread and comedic relief by mediating the "wound" of the beyond.
- This wound can either deepen terror or be experienced comedically, as seen in early German expressionism.
Horror Explores Life and Death
- Horror films grapple with subjectivity, embodiment, and death as central themes.
- Horror comedy offers a way to respond to existential fears without outright repudiation.