Conforming to Conventions - Horror

Conforming to Conventions

We need to stick to horror conventions to create a realistic opening sequence.

Mis-en-scene

• Isolated setting – Within our opening sequence we will conform to this convention by using a enclosed location with surrounding of trees.

This convention is demonstrated in The Woman in Black where a establishing shot shows a derelict mansion with an isolated feeling, which is shown below.

Colours• Dark colours such as Red

and Black –• We will conform to this

convention which represents death, danger and blood. We will do this by dressing the character in black to show danger, use a black and white wash for flashbacks and use red titles to represent blood.

Example of red titles demonstrated in the Exorcist, a opening sequence we looked into during audience research.

Lighting• Shadows – We will

use artificial lighting to keep to the conventions of shadows to represent her split personality and give a sense of her dark side.

Props• Weapons• Antiques Combining both weapons and antiques by using a antique knife is us conforming to conventions, we will use this prop to create a sense of terror. A noose is also to create a fear element which is also demonstrated in The Conjuring.

Costume• Represent characters

personality – There isn’t much research on the representation of costumes. Therefore we will use all black to reflect her personality of ‘dark’ and danger.

Sound• Fast loud non-diegetic – To stick to this convention

we will use a track which builds up in pace and volume to reflect the build up of tension in the action. We will also use diegetic sounds such as footsteps and smashing to reinforce the ‘jump’ element.