Behind the Screams- How Horror Films are Made

Behind the Screams: Little-Known Facts About How Horror Movies Are Made

If you love horror of any kind, then today’s blog post is a fun one! Horror movies have been captivating audiences for over a century, drawing us into their eerie, chilling worlds. But behind every jump scare and haunted house is a filmmaking process filled with surprising techniques. Read along and learn some little-known facts about how the industry creates its spine-chilling magic. Here's a peek into the eerie backstage of horror cinema.

1. Sound Design: The Unsung Hero of Horror

One of the most critical elements in a horror movie is its sound design. The creaking doors, ghostly whispers, and unsettling background scores play a significant role in creating tension and fear. Sound designers often use unconventional methods to create these effects. For instance, the infamous screeching sound from "Psycho's" shower scene was made by stabbing a melon, and sometimes, recordings of animal sounds are slowed down to create inhuman noises. The Harry Potter franchise added the sound of dentist drills into the soundtrack when dementors were on screen. These techniques are subtle, often not noticed by the viewer, but create a foreboding effect of dread and fear.

2. Practical Effects Over CGI

Despite the advancements in CGI, many horror filmmakers prefer practical effects to create more believable scares. Prosthetics, makeup, and animatronics are frequently used to bring monsters and gore to life. For example, in John Carpenter's "The Thing," the creature effects were all practical, created by special effects wizard Rob Bottin. These tactile effects often provide a more visceral and immediate sense of horror compared to digital effects.

3. Psychological Tricks on Set

To elicit genuine reactions from actors, directors sometimes employ psychological tricks. Alfred Hitchcock was notorious for this; during the filming of "The Birds," he did not inform actress Tippi Hedren about the real birds being released on set, resulting in her authentic fear. Similarly, William Friedkin, the director of "The Exorcist," would sometimes fire a gun on set to keep the actors in a constant state of tension.

4. Shooting in Real Haunted Locations

Some horror movies are shot in locations reputed to be haunted. This adds an extra layer of authenticity and eeriness. For instance, "The Conjuring" was filmed at a house that was believed to be genuinely haunted. The cast and crew often report strange occurrences while shooting at such locations, adding to the film’s mystique.

5. Low Budgets and Big Creativity

Horror movies often have smaller budgets compared to other genres, which forces filmmakers to be creative. The original "Halloween" was made on a shoestring budget, leading to iconic low-cost choices like using a modified Captain Kirk mask for Michael Myers. The restricted budget also means filmmakers have to rely heavily on atmosphere and suspense rather than expensive effects, often leading to more inventive and compelling storytelling.

6. Non-Linear Filming to Enhance Fear

Scenes in horror movies are rarely filmed in sequence. This non-linear approach can help keep the actors’ performances fresh and authentic. By shooting out of order, actors can be thrown into intense scenes without a gradual buildup, making their reactions more immediate and raw. It also helps maintain the continuity of the fear and tension throughout the filming process.

7. The Use of Minimal Lighting

Lighting is a critical component in creating the atmosphere of a horror film. Often, minimal and unconventional lighting techniques are employed to generate shadows and a sense of unease. For instance, in “The Blair Witch Project,” the filmmakers used natural lighting and handheld cameras to create a realistic and immersive experience. The lack of professional lighting added to the authenticity and rawness of the film.

8. Psychological Research

Many horror filmmakers delve into psychological research to understand what scares people the most. They study phobias, the human response to fear, and the psychology of horror. This research helps them craft scenes that tap into deep-seated fears and anxieties. The use of uncanny valley effects, where something is eerily close to human but not quite right, is one such psychological trick that plays on our instincts.

9. Easter Eggs and Hidden Messages

Horror movies often contain Easter eggs and hidden messages that add layers of meaning and intrigue. Directors like Stanley Kubrick in “The Shining” and Jordan Peele in “Get Out” include subtle clues and references that reward attentive viewers. These hidden elements can range from visual hints to subtextual themes, enhancing the overall depth of the film.

10. The Power of Editing

Editing in horror films is crucial for creating tension and surprise. The timing of cuts can make or break a scare. Quick, sharp cuts can jolt the audience, while longer takes can build suspense. Editors work closely with directors to ensure that the pacing of the film maximizes the horror experience. The artful use of jump cuts, cross-cutting, and lingering shots can all contribute to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.

Creating a horror movie is a complex and multifaceted process that combines art, psychology, and practical effects. These behind-the-scenes secrets reveal the ingenuity and creativity that go into making films that haunt our dreams and keep us looking over our shoulders long after the credits roll. Next time you watch a horror film, remember the meticulous craft that goes into every spine-chilling moment.