Codes and conventions of a horror

Horror Genre

·         Split into sub genres- often hybrids

·         Primary target audience- male, 16-24

·         15 or 18 certification (promises of pleasure)- debates on passive consumption

·         Extensive use of Narrative enigmas

·         Slow pace of Editing, builds tension. Long takes

Codes and Conventions:

·         Three act narrative structure

·         Predictable narrative content (follows format)

·         Clear binary oppositions e.g. good vs. evil

·         Use of low key lighting, Use of CGI, FX

·         Dominant representation of gender: Male villain, The Female victim

·         Extensive use of close up, Point of view shots, Low angle shots

·         Young/ teenage characters

·         Use of hand-held camera: audience identification/realism.

Associations with a horror film:

• Isolated house
• Dark Lighting
• Murder
• Gore
• Scary music
• Villains and Victims

Target Audience:

•  Ages from 15-25
• Male audience if there are a lot of gory/ violent scenes
• Exciting and thrilling with dramatic scenes
• Pleasure of being scared
• Women often play victim which attracts the men