A survey was conducted with 50 participants to inform the creation of a horror thriller film opening. Most respondents preferred horror and thriller film genres. Haunted and psychological thrillers were the most popular subgenres. When asked about character dynamics, victims and psychopaths were favored. Qualities like an intriguing storyline, elements of realism, tension-building, and a twist were cited as making a good horror thriller. The haunted theme proved most popular overall. Taking these survey results into account will help ensure the opening appeals to the target audience.