Psychological horror

Definition

Psychological horror is a subgenre of horror that focuses on the mental and emotional states of its characters, often emphasizing fear, paranoia, and anxiety over physical threats. This type of horror digs deep into the psyche, exploring themes such as madness, obsession, and the fragility of reality. It relies heavily on atmosphere and character development, creating a sense of dread that often stems from the characters' own thoughts and experiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Psychological horror became prominent during the early 20th century, heavily influenced by German Expressionism's focus on emotional distortion and subjective realities.
2. Films in this genre often feature unreliable narrators, leaving audiences uncertain about what is real and what is imagined.
3. Classic examples include movies like 'Psycho' and 'Repulsion,' where the protagonist's psychological state is central to the horror experience.
4. This subgenre often utilizes sound design and visual style to create a haunting atmosphere that heightens tension and unease.
5. Psychological horror has significantly influenced contemporary cinema, inspiring filmmakers to explore deeper themes of human nature and mental illness.

Review Questions

• How does psychological horror differ from traditional horror in terms of character focus and thematic exploration?
  • Psychological horror differs from traditional horror by concentrating more on the inner workings of characters' minds rather than external threats like monsters or killers. While traditional horror often relies on jump scares and visceral imagery, psychological horror builds tension through character development and emotional turmoil. This approach allows audiences to connect with the characters' fears and anxieties on a deeper level, making the horror more relatable and impactful.
• Discuss how German Expressionism has influenced the visual style and storytelling techniques used in psychological horror films.
  • German Expressionism has profoundly influenced psychological horror by introducing stylized visuals that emphasize distortion and exaggeration. These visual techniques create a disorienting atmosphere that mirrors characters' inner chaos. Additionally, expressionist storytelling often features themes of alienation and madness, which resonate with the core elements of psychological horror. This connection between visual style and narrative allows filmmakers to evoke a sense of dread that is deeply rooted in character psychology.
• Evaluate the impact of psychological horror on contemporary cinema and how it addresses modern societal fears.
  • Psychological horror has made a significant impact on contemporary cinema by shifting the focus toward exploring complex themes such as mental illness, trauma, and existential dread. Films like 'Hereditary' and 'Get Out' not only deliver chilling narratives but also reflect societal fears related to family dynamics, racial tensions, and personal identity. By engaging with these deeper issues, psychological horror encourages audiences to confront their own anxieties while providing a platform for meaningful discussions about mental health and societal pressures.

Related terms

German Expressionism: An artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century in Germany, characterized by distorted visuals and exaggerated forms to express emotional experience rather than physical reality.

Surrealism: An art and literary movement that seeks to challenge the conventional perception of reality by blending dreamlike elements with the real world, often inducing feelings of unease or confusion.

Existential dread: A feeling of deep anxiety or fear about one's existence or the absurdity of life, often explored in psychological horror through characters confronting their own mortality or purpose.