Genre and outline of conventions

Psychological Horror:

Sub-genre of Horror which relies on:

• Character fears
• Guilt
• Emotional Instability

to build tension and further the plot.

Horror is NOT derived from gore, violence or some form of 'monster' but another person or supernatural presence

Discomfort of the audience is a common aim, achieved through exploiting common physical and emotional vulnerabilities or fears which are often repressed or denied

The Horror comes from within and reveals the evil behind normality.

Characters are often seemingly normal on the outside, but deep down they are disturbed with dark secrets and hidden pasts.

Elements from the Thriller genre are often used in which the fear is created in the audience by tension being built throughout the film which is very rarely released, resulting in feelings of unease in the audience.

The genre isn't reliant on sudden jolts or direct physical harm/threats

The primary effect is to play upon the anticipation of a perceived threat, or confuse the viewer on the nature or existence of a threat.

Doubts about the plot/narrative of the film which we may never discover or have to decide for ourselves, or sometimes unexpected plot turns are often used to disorientate and interest audiences.

These are the results of my initial research on conventions.
I will later, after receiving feedback on an essay based around further research, post the results of more intense research on the conventions of Psychological Horror, with examples, and how I intend to use them.