How Horror Films Have Changed and Adapted Over Time

Over the years the horror genre has been forced to change and adapt to suit audiences as not to become boring and predictable and instead continue to entertain and scare viewers. These changes include the plots becoming more complex and psychologically baffling, a change in the way films are shot and arranged and the blood and gore has increased to shock the viewers more and more. Here is an overview of the way the genre has changed from the 30s to the present day:

• 1930’s – horrors were based on literature and films such as Dracula and Frankenstein were made.
• 1950’s-1960’s – alien and monster movies were created to take away some of the nations fear during the cold war, by allowing human kind to seem in control and as wanting and achieving peace allowing them to escape from the realities of fear of nuclear attack. During this era movies such as Godzilla and Them! were produced.
• 1970’s – realism was introduced to the genre. More relatable films generated more fright during this time. Films such as the legendary Psycho and Halloween were created.
• 1980’s – in the 80’s slashers were the most popular of horror films such as Nightmare on Elm Street. Also special effects were used more and more during this decade creating monsters as the villains resulting in films such as An American Werewolf in London and The Thing.
• 1990’s – psychological thrillers are introduced and fear of the unknown is used widely. Films such as The Blair Witch Project, which was the first of its kind and changed the horror genre completely, introducing a completely unique style. Also films such as se7en had a lot of religious connotations, the victims having to pay for their sins.
• 2000’s – religious connotations followed into the noughties, with films such as Saw being made. Also predictions for world chaos and destruction such as The Day after Tomorrow and 1012, as well as inescapable and unprovoked deaths such as in the film Final Destination. More recently films such as Paranormal Activity and The Orphan have reintroduced psychological horrors.