Slasher film

 

Slasher film

I came across the term ‘slasher film’ only recently, so had to investigate a little. I found this:

‘’Slasher films are a subgenre of horror centred on a killer who stalks and murders a group of victims, typically using bladed or close‑range weapons. They emphasize suspense, escalating body counts, and the fear of being hunted.”

Blood and gore, suspense, physical and psychological horror, endless unrealistic ‘fights,’ at least two riveting chases across unlikely terrain, like rooftops (why do perpetrators always attempt to escape upwards?)

Many people enjoy watching horror films, for the thrill of almost being involved and having the associated adrenaline rush in the safety of a cinema or their home. The desire to watch participants fighting and enduring terrible injuries dates back at least to Ancient Rome.

Gladiatorial performances were conducted from 264 BC for almost one thousand years. They were not always ‘fights to the death,’ as films have suggested, but were refereed. Gladiators might fight two or three times a year, and have a career of several years.

Slasher films might be portrayed as modern fairy stories, showing the victory of good over evil. Some films have seemed to glory in the deeds of their villains, with sequential films showing the evil-doer as the main focus, an anti-hero as hero, maybe.

The most affecting and effective horror is that which is suggested rather than shown.

I do not like horror films at all. There are enough terrible things happening in the world without seeking them as entertainment.

 How about you?