This document discusses techniques used in psychological horror films to build tension and fear in viewers. Some techniques mentioned include using silence and loud noises, showing emotionally unstable characters, shooting from a low angle to make characters seem vulnerable, following shots to create mystery, and reflections in mirrors to hide identities. It also discusses using isolated or abandoned settings, low-key lighting, and fast-paced editing to heighten tension. Examples given are the films "Session 9," set in an abandoned hospital, and "Angel Heart," about a sinister investigation.

2.  Atmospheric and suspense to keep viewers on the
edge of their seats.
 Some areas of silence to create a sense of
unknown.
 Screams and loud noises. This is stereotypical of a
psychological horror film.

3. •Show fear and emotional instability to build tension
amongst viewers.
•A disturbed, or tormented individual is the main
antagonist
•Common or universal psychological vulnerabilities
and fears exposed by the character create
discomfort in the viewer.

4. Used to make the figure or object that is being looked down on
seem completely powerless and vulnerable.
used to highlight the characters emotional
expressions. It could also be used to capture
detail, i.e. to show injury, fear etc.
used effectively to connote that a character is being
followed which creates mystery and suspense amongst the
viewers as the identity of the follower is hidden. It also
creates fear as the audience do not know what to expect
next.

5. used to put into perspective how deserted or eerie
and area is.
they can emphasize how scary
or intimidating a villain is.
This could make the audience
and characters feel weak and
insignificant.
This is perceived as one of the best shots to build
tension. It is used to add suspense and tension. It is used
especially round mirrors and reflections so the audience
and see what’s happening as soon. Alternatively is can
hide someone’s identity from the viewer to create more
mystery.

6. • Fast pace editing involving fast cuts is often used to
emphasise drama and heighten tension. An example of
this is the trailer of ‘Women in Black’.
• Slow pace editing is also used in emotional scenes. This
allows more concentration on the character in order for
the audience to see the pain and fear they are suffering.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bP7rAdFLq98

7. • Psychological Horror films use dark and scary settings that sting fear
and tension into the audience. This setting is also relatable to the
scenes being played out.
• Low-key lighting is also commonly used because they intend to create
mystery and a fear of unknown for the audience as they do not know
what is to happen next.
• Sometimes the killer in these films may wear normal clothes because by
doing this the character can relate to people in real life,
allowing the film to connect ton easily connect with the
audience.

8. • The typical locations for a horror film are usually
isolated, abandoned or locations with a hidden past. This
creates a build up of tension for the audience.
Setting of the film ‘Session 9’ Setting of the film ‘Conjuring’

9. • Session 9 – Located in an abandoned hospital. The plot is
for an asbestos company to steal asbestos from the
hospital. However an horrific past seems to be coming
back.
• Angel Heart – An investigator is hired by a
called Louis Cyphre to track down a singer
called Johnny Favourite but the investigation
takes an unexpected and somber turn.