Iconographies and conventions in Horror films

Settings:

Horror films tend to be set in dark isolated places, such as woods, small villages/towns, countryside, abandoned areas and places such as asylums. This is because they give the feeling of lonelyness and isolation. Woods, for example, can make the character and audience feel lost and confused. They can also make them feel vulnerable.

Lighting:

Lighting is very important when it comes to horror films. The slightest change in lighting can change the whole feel of the film. Low level lighting tends to be used within horror films, this is because it creates a creepy atmosphere and also creates shadows. Half lighting is also commonly used, this is used to show there is something else to a character, or that the character is hiding something.

Sound:

Sound in horror films is very important. It can change how a scene (or entire film) is portayed. In horror films, diegetic sounds tend to be overly exaggerated, this is because it allows tension to build. For exapmle, in loud snapping branches, footsteps and creaking. Non-Diegetic is equally important in the genre of film, as it can make the audience feel scared and can also make the audience jump.

Props:

Props are extremely important in this genre, as they allow the scene to be set. The different props have different conventions and iconographies that come along with them. In our film, we are using a 'camping site' in a woodland setting, this  setting will allow the audience to feel trapped like the characters are. The audience will also link the woods to other films that are set in the woods, such as 'Cabin in the Woods' or 'Evil Dead'. The feelings associated with these films will be then linked to our film.