2. Semantic approach
of horror.
‘what is typically expected in a certain genre of film’
Semantics include areas such as location, character and props. These are
what usually give a film their generic genre traits. For instance, an
isolated area is very often associated with horror films as this gives the
characters no where to run, and allows the action to intensify in one
specific area.
Also, an extremely stereotypical area of horror is that low key lighting is
used; whether that be night time, bad weather or a unlit area (e.g. no
lights on in a house). This connection between the dark and the unknown
makes the audience believe they can prepare themselves for what could
possibly happen/ However, the association of emotions, isolation;
anxiety; fear etc. of this situation begin to surface.

3. Syntactic approach
of horror.
‘elements in the narrative or ideology of the genre’
In a horror film, the narrative we expect is foremost, the survival of the
main character or characters. More commonly, there is only one, if any
survivors.
Second to this, we expect a person or ‘creature’ to be after these
characters. This unknown adds to the element of anxiety and fear which
increases as the narrative goes on – heightening close to the end of the
film. This leaves the audience in suspense. Horror movies are designed to
induce emotion and adrenaline into the audience. However, this is an
appealing factor as even though the fear is there, the viewers know they
are safe and that it is different to a real life situation.