Representation in horror films is often examined through Laura Mulvey's Male Gaze Theory, which argues that audiences view characters from a male perspective, focusing on how males look at females on screen. Traditionally, horror films represent women as weak and vulnerable and men as stronger and more powerful, with males saving females. However, some modern horror movies subvert this by portraying women as the heroic characters who gain power. Representation theories in horror analyze how gender roles are portrayed and how the perspectives of male vs female characters are represented.

1. Representation
Investigation
Paige Atkins

2. Representation…
• The action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone or the state of being
so represented. The description or portrayal of someone or something in a
particular way or as being of a certain nature.

3. Theory…
• Laura Mulvey’s Theory:
• Introduced the feminist concept of ‘Male Gaze’ as a feature of gender
power asymmetry in film. She believes that in film, audiences have to
‘view’ characters from the perspective of a male, focusing on the way males
looks at women.

4. • representation can link to the horror genre as women are stereotypically seen as
weak, vulnerable and fragile with men typically looking stronger, braver and the
more powerful character throughout the film who come and save the
stereotypical female. This isn't always the case in horror movies, in many films
the women become the 'hero' character and gain more power.
What representation theories
link to the horror genre?