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How have horror movies evolved over the years, and what makes the new films better than the classics?

Rebeca Radborne

Horror movies have been a staple in the film industry for decades, and their evolution over time has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the eerie black and white silent films of the early 1900s, to the terrifying and realistic depictions of horror we see in modern-day cinema, horror movies have truly come a long way. In this post, we will dive deep into the evolution of horror movies, their impact on society, and why new horror films are better than the classics.

The early days of horror movies, dating back to the 1920s and 30s, were characterized by silent pictures with simplistic plots and low budgets. Films such as Nosferatu and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde were the pioneers of horror cinema, with their focus on supernatural events and creatures. However, as technology advanced, horror movies became more elaborate, with the introduction of sound, colour, and special effects.

The 1960s and 70s brought another wave of horror films, with the legendary director Alfred Hitchcock taking centre stage. His films, Psycho and The Birds, were an instant hit, and they still remain popular today. The 70s were also the era of cult classic horror films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Night of the Living Dead, and The Exorcist. These films were groundbreaking, as they showcased the darker side of humanity and brought horror to the forefront of popular culture.

As horror movies entered the 21st century, there was a significant shift in the genre. Horror movies became more graphic and in-your-face, with the introduction of found-footage films like The Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity. These films used shaky camera work and realistic sound effects to create a sense of panic and fear in audiences worldwide.

So, what makes new horror films better than the classics? The answer is simple: technology. With advancements in CGI, special effects, and sound design, new horror films are more realistic and terrifying than ever before. Modern horror films like Hereditary and The Conjuring rely on subtle scares and twists to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, rather than cheap jump scares that the classics often used.

Moreover, modern horror films have evolved to tackle complex themes such as mental health, domestic violence, and societal issues. These films serve as an outlet for individuals to face their inner demons and explore the darkest corners of human nature. Films like Get Out, which won the Best Original Screenplay at the 90th Academy Awards, have redefined the horror genre by exploring social issues while maintaining the core elements of horror cinema.

In conclusion, the evolution of horror movies has been an exciting journey over the last century. From silent black and white movies to contemporary horror masterpieces, the genre has had an undeniable impact on popular culture. As technology and storytelling continue to evolve, new horror films have surpassed the classics in terms of realism, complexity, and social relevance. It is an exciting time to be a horror movie fan, and we can't wait to see what the future holds.