Film 101: A Harrowing History of Horror

Introduction

• Author: Eleanore Barrera
• Published by: George Eastman Museum
• Theme: Exploring the evolution and history of the horror film genre.

Misconceptions about Horror

• Initial belief: Horror films are repetitive with gore-focused narratives.
• Realization: Horror is dynamic, reflecting societal fears and anxieties.

Origins of Horror in Film

• Gothic Literature: Predecessor to horror films; introduced supernatural elements, suspense, and stereotypical characters.
• Film Techniques: Evolved from literature to use film editing, lighting, and sound to create suspense.
• Early Horror Films: 1930s marked the beginning, heavily influenced by British Gothic stories.

Key Early Films

• Universal Studios: Major early player with films like:
  • The Phantom of the Opera (1925)
  • Dracula (1931)
  • The Mummy (1932)
  • The Invisible Man (1933)
• Impact: Shifted origins of monsters to foreign lands, distancing horror from American settings.

Horror and Science Fiction: Cold War Era

• 1950s Trend: Horror films intertwined with science fiction, often reflecting Cold War anxieties.
• Notable Films:
  • Gojira (1954)
  • Them! (1954)

Birth of Modern Horror

• Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960):
  • Revolutionized horror; brought horror into everyday American life.
  • Introduced a new level of suspense and narrative control.
  • Changed movie-going experience to a more controlled, immersive event.

Innovations by Hitchcock

• Spoilers and Secrecy: First to actively prevent narrative spoilers.
• Cinematic Experience: Changed audience behavior by controlling film screening practices.
  • Required punctuality and secrecy.

Modern Horror

• Contemporary Influences:
  • Films reflect societal issues and anxieties.
  • Globalization and streaming technology influence.
• Notable Modern Films:
  • Get Out (2017) by Jordan Peele: Tackles American racism.
  • Midsommar (2019): Explores personal trauma via Swedish folklore.
  • Parasite (2019): Addresses class discrimination.

Modern Horror Traits

• Focus on reflection and societal commentary.
• Encourages repeat viewings for deeper understanding.

Conclusion

• Diversity and Ingenuity: Modern horror is varied and complex, reflecting cultural and societal changes.

Further Engagement

• George Eastman Museum Resources:
  • Sign up for e-news and stream digital films online.
  • Engage on social media: Instagram and Twitter @drydentheatre.