2. There are many aims of lighting and its main
purpose in horrors is to enhance the mood and
create an terrifying atmosphere. The lighting
tends to be dark in horror films as it allows
eeriness and mystery and that is why profile
lighting is mainly used. Darkness gives a sense
of the unknown because it becomes harder to
see even a short distance or make out things
clearly which fuels our imagination to what is
really there.
3. Profile lighting creates contrast
between light and dark and
creates shadow.
Back lighting has a similar
effect to profile but creates a
harsh contrast allowing dark
Spotlighting gives a silhouettes.
main focus to a
specific character and
illuminates them so
that almost seems
unnatural.
4. Depending on the camera angle or shot used it can
change the interpretation of how the audience
views the scene or character.
Horror trailers use fast cuts for edits to give a
twisted type feel to film. This is also done by the
use of close-ups on characters to capture their
screaming and terrified reaction which will mimic
the audiences’ emotion.
POV is used to allow the audience to feel as if they
are experience it themselves whether being the
killer or the victim – realistic aspect.
Recently, hand-held camera type shots have
become popular through such films as ‘Paranormal
Activity’ but are mainly seen in supernatural than
slasher.
5. Sound like lighting is there is a horror trailer to set
the mood and in my opinion is the most important
thing in making a successful trailer.
The sound of a heartbeat is very popular as builds
tension possibly mimicking the heart rate of the
audience.
All trailers show the equilibrium but even the
music then is quite eerie through the use of slow
piano under dialogue
Stab of sound of bang – shows change in situation
when introducing the disruption (killer on loose).
6. LIGHTING:
Profile Lighting and Spotlighting
CAMERA:
A range of different shot types but mainly close-ups.
A use of low-angle to make the killer seem superior
and victims seem helpless.
SOUND:
Use of heartbeat in montage and rock music to play
a huge roll.
