By Jodie Goolding

Codes andCoventions in the Horror

Genre

Codes and conventions are basically 'rules' that must be followed in order to fit into a

genre. They are shown through mise-en-scene, sound, camerawork and

editing.

• Scare the viewer and to make them feel uneasy/on edge

• Conclude in a shocking finale• Frighten and panic• Provoke our hidden fears

Horror Films are designed to:

Horror Films include...

• High production values but many low budget horror films • Dominant representation of gender: The Female Victim • Primary target audience – Young Adults/Teens, 16-24,• Extensive use of Narrative enigmas • Exploration of Narrative Themes

Female VictimScary Movie

• Slow pace of Editing, builds tension. Long takes • Predictable narrative content (follows format) • Clear oppositions e.g. good v evil • Use of low key lighting • Low angle shots• Point of view shots• Distorted diegetic sound• Extensive use of close up• Extensive use of narrative off-screen space • Young/teenage characters• Use of hand-held camera: audience identification/realism

Technical Codes

Setting

A usual setting for a typical film in the horror genre are places that are abandoned or have a hidden past. This can create a sense of tension and how the characters are alone. However the setting of a horror film can be varied and can be set anywhere, at any time of day.

Cabin In The Woods

How are codes and coventions are used in the opening of "Creep"?In the opening of creep many codes and conventions are used to make it fit into the horror genre.

SoundNon-Diegetic sound is used to set up a creepy atmosphere throughout the opening; this sets up the audience expectation, adds tension and keeps them alert and on the edge of their seats.

As well as the music being used sound effects of the train is used to set up the narrative for the rest of the film.

Mise-en-sceneDark colours are used to set up tension and darkness in the film. However bright yellow text is used this symbolises lights on the train which sets up the narrative for the rest of the film.

EditingEditing is invisable through most of the clip however some editing is still used. The opening jumps between titles and footage quickly like many horror films.

CameraworkAn excessive amount extreme close-ups are used throughout and this is found a lot in horror films. Especially film openings such as this one and also "Seven."

The camera moves along with the sound and is quite fast and disorientated. This also reinforces the narrative as the camera doesn't fully focus on anything so its like a train going past.