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How To Properly Enjoy a Horror Movie.

Cause what's not to love about horror movies.

By Moonlit Sky.Published 4 years ago 3 min read
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You want to watch a horror movie.

Awesome!

Now, regardless of whether you've watched one before or not, you might think it's as simple as putting the movie on and sitting back to watch. Unfortunately, while this isn't a bad tactic if you have zero ideas what type of horror you actually enjoy, if you know of a particular preference, then it's not the best plan.

If you are watching a horror movie for the first time, and you have no idea whether you want to see people running and screaming for their lives or potentially holding a cross up to a possessed person, then honestly give whatever you want a shot.

On the other hand, if you know slower paranormal movies aren't your thing, or you don't like the action-packed gore that others consist of...

Then your step 1 should be to find out what kind of movie it actually is.

Once you know what type of movie it is, you will know what to expect from the pacing, and if nothing else, you can avoid watching something that will bore you.

For example, I saw a YouTube video where a young man watches The Conjuring for the first time.

About 5 minutes into the video, maybe 15 into the movie, he seems surprised that no one has died, and he comments how he expects this character or that to do so, and hopes they will.

I'm sure some of this was for the video he was making for views. But, here's the thing about The Conjuring. It is a paranormal style film. Meaning, it's about spirits, silence, tiny sounds that lead to the most creepy music you might ever hear, demonic possession, and the occasional Exorcism.

If that sounds right up your alley, you will probably love this movie, and all it spawned.

On the other hand, if you prefer a movie where characters are killed off every 5-10 minutes or every couple of scenes, and people are running for their lives half the time. Basically, Halloween, Friday the 13th, and all the other options. The Conjuring series (and everything it spawned) isn't for you. Which is perfectly fine, I love both a proper action-horror and the paranormal.

But, that is part of enjoying a horror movie. If you want to see people die, actually I'd recommend No One Lives. It seems a B-rated film, but Luke Evans plays his part really well, and as the title suggests, people die.

Anyway, if you want to see people die, then search serial killer, "psycho," action-horror type of movies, cause there will be plenty of that.

Along with choosing a movie that fits your preferred style of a horror movie, also best to check the year it was made in. Not that you should avoid any particular year(s), but I've learned that can drastically change how the movie presents.

Primarily if you're used to recent movies, the older stuff is quite different in special effects or camera angles, sometimes acting style, so it might be a tad overdramatic. Or not dramatic enough.

Although sometimes, in those golden oldies, you will find the perfect type of horror movie. Hell, you're favorite might even be The Shining. Which, personally I would classify as a thriller, but it is due a lot of credit.

If you've gone over all that and either you've chosen something that fits your preference, or you're watching something new...

Good luck.

Cause the reality is, horror movies can be hit and miss, and I'd be lying if I said otherwise. There are ones with great potential, which just miss the mark or tear that mark to shreds and overdo it.

Don't be afraid to branch out, just prepare yourself and remember your next favourite movie is really just anther try away.

Also, if you have anxiety, and for whatever reason, you’ve been avoiding watching a horror movie because you think it will make it worse. I am not a professional but I do have anxiety, and surprisingly it can actually help. It sort of gives your fear an outlet, something to focus it all on.

All in all, I do hope you find your horror niche and many movies that will happily bring you to the edge of your seat. Or have you hiding so far into it that you become one with the material, haha.

Thank you for reading!

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About the Creator

Moonlit Sky.

I'm a writer. Often with a dirty mind. I love animals, movies, TV shows and books.

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