Like all genres, horror (movies, in particular) can be hauntingly good or absurdly disappointing. However, horror requires a delicate balance to maintain its positive status–one that often isn’t achieved. Below, I will discuss some of the qualities of a good horror movie (often involving some degree of genre-blending).Â
An innocent victim/well-written character
It’s a lot easier to feel scared and concerned about a character who is actually innocent or likeable. Whereas some characters can be seen as idiotic or “asking for it” (as in countless movies I can’t remember the names of–-and that one scene in Sinners), horror films are typically better when that is not the case. It also helps when the plot doesn’t center around teenage idiots accidentally angering a malevolent spirit (although it isn’t a dealbreaker). The easiest way to make the audience feel bad is by featuring a character who doesn’t understand (such as The Exorcist or Good Boy).
Realism
Although there is a certain charm to a mysterious supernatural force, horror movies are scarier when they could conceivably happen. Obviously, stories that are based on true events are spookier than their fictional counterparts (like VerĂłnica and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), but fabricated stories can still be successful when they are explained in a convincing way. The Last of Us and the Maze Runner series, both dystopian, each includes some degree of explanation for its respective zombie apocalypse and its continued dominance. While it does include supernatural elements, The Shining also provides a powerful example of natural causes (namely the weather) that prevent the force’s victims from escaping or getting help. It is important to note, however, that when the characters are confronted with an unstoppable enemy, sometimes it makes more sense for it to be a supernatural entity than a regular human.Â
Social commentary
Though it is not necessary, social commentary often enhances films, including horror films. As a genre, horror contains uniquely dark and disturbing themes that can emphasize the gravity of its message. For example, Black Mirror explores the potential dangers of technology, Get Out focuses on racism and power dynamics, Smile contains mental health metaphors, and The Last of Us briefly touches on climate change. American Psycho takes a different approach, using comedy to satirize masculine corporate culture.
Lack of gore
Gore is one of the most common characteristics of horror movies and rarely fails to disturb viewers, but too often does it become the only characteristic. While realistic gore requires expert special effects and makeup artists, it is also frequently used as a replacement for a plot. As demonstrated by The Sixth Sense, horror movies don’t have to be rated R to be good.
Music
This one goes without saying: music is a powerful tool used in movies to set the mood. Horror movies are no exception.