Sunday 7 November 2010

Why we watch horror/thriller films. . .

There are a number of reasons why people watch horror films; this is down to a number of factors such as individual differences, past experiences etc. I personally watch horror films in order to gain physical effects such as a rise in heart rate, jumping and gasping. All of these offer me the chance to experience physical changes which are rarely used in everyday life. A second reason people may choose to view these genres is escapism. For example, in films such as Alien it allows the audiences to engage in an unknown world to theirs, these results in them briefly forgetting about all threats, worries and problems they may have in their everyday life. Another may be to intrigue, solving puzzles or estimate later events. For example, the Saw movies are all based around jigsaws puzzles and games. This gives the audience a chance to work out what the characters have to do or even what they may have done. This involves the audience taking an active role (uses of gratification theory) as it involves the audience to think for themselves and interpret the situation in individual ways. A major reason may be that they often involve content associated with anti - mainstream activity. An exploitation of a taboo subject; something not acceptable within everyday society. This may offer the viewers the opportunity to access behaviour which they would not otherwise get the chance to see, i.e. a murder. Personal fear may also be another reason. For example, those afraid of spider may watch Eight Legged Freaks as this can be used as a means of facing their personal fear and taking a step of bravery. Lastly, people may choose to watch such genres due to the triumph of good over evil.

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