Types of Horror

Seminal  - this is the type of horror that will strongly influence later developments. An example is Hitchcock's Psycho ( 1960) as it set a new level of acceptability for violence and defiant behaviour in film. It is one of the earliest psychological horror films.



Classic - this is the type of horror that is very typical to its genre; the films that elicit the most fear. And over a period of time, the film will be judged of the highest quality and outstanding of its kind. Classic horror films include Halloween, Texas Chainsaw Massacre and A Nightmare on Elm Street.



Revisionist - this is the type of horror film that changes what is typically expected of a horror film. Revisionist films are often considered the ‘new-wave’ of the genre as they typically appeal to the younger denomination of people. Revisionist films of the horror genre include Insidious, Paranormal Activity and the renowned Evil Dead.



Parody - now, the parodic horror movie completely changes the formula from what is expected of a horror film as it combines horror with elements of highly satirised comedy. Many parody films will rip off parts from other well-known horror movies. One of the most famous series of Parodic Films is called Scary Movie. This series includes five separate films, each parodying horror films. For example, Scary Movie 3 parodies horror films such as:
  • The Ring
  • The Others
  • The Texas Chainsaw Massacre

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