Hello, Horror Lovers!
The horror genre has long captivated audiences with its spine-chilling tales of fear, terror, and the unknown. From classic monsters to supernatural hauntings, horror has continually evolved to reflect the fears and anxieties of society. In recent years, however, the horror genre has been undergoing a significant transformation. This blog post delves into the ways in which the horror genre is changing, exploring new themes, innovative storytelling techniques, and the broader cultural shifts that are reshaping our understanding of fear.
Breaking Traditional Conventions
One of the most noticeable changes in the horror genre is the departure from traditional conventions. Filmmakers and writers are increasingly challenging established tropes and formulas to offer fresh and unexpected experiences. For instance, recent horror films like “Get Out” and “A Quiet Place” incorporate social commentary and explore deeper themes, blurring the lines between horror and other genres like drama and thriller. This evolution allows horror to become a vehicle for exploring societal issues and reflecting on our fears beyond mere jump scares.
Psychological Horror Takes Center Stage
While monsters and supernatural beings still hold their place in the genre, there has been a surge in psychological horror. Rather than relying solely on gore and violence, filmmakers and authors are delving into the human psyche to create unnerving and thought-provoking narratives. Works like “Hereditary,” “The Babadook,” and “Midsommar” explore themes of grief, trauma, and mental health, often leaving audiences with a lingering sense of unease long after the credits roll.
Subverting Expectations and Redefining Monsters
The horror genre is no longer bound by the notion of what constitutes a monster. Modern horror embraces the idea that true monsters can exist within us all. In films like “It Follows” and “The Witch,” the horrors lie within the characters themselves, challenging our perceptions of good and evil. By subverting expectations and blurring the line between the monstrous and the human, these narratives offer a more nuanced and complex exploration of fear.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
The horror genre, like many other forms of entertainment, is undergoing a much-needed transformation in terms of representation. Inclusive storytelling is becoming increasingly important, with diverse characters and narratives taking center stage. Films like “Us” and “Get Out” by Jordan Peele feature black protagonists and tackle issues of race and identity, while “Tigers Are Not Afraid” explores the horrors faced by children in Mexico. These stories provide fresh perspectives and amplify voices that have historically been underrepresented in the genre.
Blending Horror With Other Genres
In an effort to push boundaries and appeal to broader audiences, horror is finding its way into unexpected genres. We are witnessing a rise in horror-comedies like “Shaun of the Dead” and “Happy Death Day,” as well as horror-dramas such as “The Shape of Water” and “Pan’s Labyrinth.” This blending of genres adds depth and complexity to horror narratives, offering unique viewing experiences that cater to different tastes.
Below are a few of these horror novels that do an excellent job of reaching down inside of you. Click and read about these. If you do, you will soon be discovering fears you didn’t know you even have:
How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix
Tell Me I’m Worthless by Alison Rumfitt
Don’t Fear the Reaper by Stephen Graham Jones
A House with Good Bones by T. Kingfisher
This Delicious Death by Kayla Cottingham
All Hallows by Christopher Golden
The Nightmare Man by J.H. Markert
Our Share of Night by Mariana Enríquez
I hope you enjoy your choices and if you get any of these, be sure to send a book review of the book(s) you choose to SEND REVIEWS HERE! and I will put it up beneath here on this blog post.
Did you find this blog post informational…enjoyable?
