Conventions of a Horror Film

Horror films typically consist of some sort of villain, whether that be the supernatural/serial killers or monsters. The setting is terrifying and sets a mystery, eerie feel to it which puts the audience on edge, examples of these sorts of settings are old houses, forests, dark settings. The horror genre usually consists of unexpected happenings and some sort of twist within the film in order to shock or scare the audience. Unexpected things could lead to fear provoked excitement and thrill which leads ultimately to entertainment. The setting and costume within horror films are usually dark in order to cause mystery, or costume can take the innocent route of white which emphasises the vulnerability and purity of the victim. Blood and some sort of weapon is used within a slasher horror in order to create fear and tension within the audience as it is realistic to an extent which intrigues them and leaves them wondering what the outcome will be.
Cliffhangers can often be used to create suspense and tension, leaving the audience wondering what has happened and what this tragedy will result in. Non-linear structured films are extremely popular within the horror genre as it creates tension and builds the mystery. We are going to begin our opening sequence in the middle of the action in order to create mystery for the audience, it will be dramatic from the very beginning which will hook the audience and excite them for the remainder of the film.