Why certain brains love horror movies

Summary

This video explores the evolution of horror films, beginning with Georges Méliès' groundbreaking 1896 short, 'Le Manoir du Diable.' It examines key techniques that filmmakers use to elicit fear, such as disturbing soundtracks, jump scares, low and extreme angles, and handheld shots that create a sense of instability. The psychological effects of fear are discussed, highlighting how audiences experience a mix of terror and exhilaration, ultimately leading to a cathartic release once the film ends. The video reveals that horror fans are, in essence, adrenaline junkies who thrive on fear and the adrenaline rush it brings.

Takeaways

• 🎬 The first horror movie, 'Le Manoir du Diable' by Georges Méliès, set the stage for the genre in 1896.
• 🔊 Sound is crucial in horror films; unsettling soundtracks heighten suspense and terror.
• 😱 Jump scares are a common technique where characters feel safe before being suddenly attacked.
• 👀 Low angles in camera work invoke fear and tension in the audience.
• 🔍 Extreme close-ups create an intense mood by focusing on part of an object or character.
• ⚖️ Oblique or canted angles suggest imbalance and instability, often used in point-of-view shots.
• 📷 Handheld shots provide a shaky perspective that enhances immediacy and a sense of control loss.
• 🧠 Watching horror triggers a biological fight-or-flight response, leading to a euphoric dopamine release.
• 😌 Horror fans experience a paradoxical enjoyment of fear, leading to a sense of accomplishment after the film.
• 🔥 The thrill of danger and subsequent catharsis contribute to the enduring popularity of horror films.

Q & A

What is credited as the first horror movie?

Georges Méliès' 'Le Manoir du Diable' is credited as the very first horror movie.

How do soundtracks contribute to horror films?

Horror filmmakers use disturbing soundtracks to heighten suspense and terror, often mimicking the sounds of scared animals.

What is a jump scare?

A jump scare is a technique where characters feel safe but are suddenly attacked by a monster, designed to startle the audience.

What filming techniques invoke fear in audiences?

Techniques like low angles, extreme close-ups, oblique angles, and handheld shots create a sense of fear and instability.

How does the body react to fear when watching horror movies?

The body goes into high alert, triggering a fight or flight response, but since viewers know they are safe, it leads to a euphoric feeling.

What biological response occurs during scary moments?

During scary moments, dopamine is released in the brain, creating a euphoric feeling despite the terror.

Why do horror movie fans enjoy feeling scared?

Horror fans enjoy the thrill of fear, worry, and anxiety, often feeling a sense of accomplishment once the movie ends.

What role does catharsis play in horror films?

Catharsis in horror films refers to the sense of relief and accomplishment viewers feel after experiencing danger and fear during the film.

What effect does a handheld camera have in horror films?

A handheld camera creates a sense of immediacy and instability, making viewers feel more involved and out of control.

How do filmmakers manipulate camera angles to create fear?

Filmmakers use techniques like tilting the camera or focusing on partial objects to suggest imbalance and heighten tension.