WHY DO WE WATCH SCARY FILM?

DOLF ZILLMAN



Excitation - transfer theory
By experience negative and scary imagery we intensify the positive feelings when the negative is removed.

We enjoy seeing evil vanquished - relief pleasure.






ARISTOTLE 

 

(384 B.C - 322 B.C )

We are drawn to violent, scary, negative imagery or experience to release pent up feeling of aggression.

GLENN D. WALTERS

FOR FILMS TO BE SCARY THEY MUST :

1) TENSION AND SUSPENSE.

narrative, use of micro-elements 

 - manipulation of information.

2) RELEVANCE

The fears explored by the audience have to be RELEVANT to the audience - they have to believe.

3) UNREALISM

We have to have the idea in the back of our head to know that it is not real.

PURGE CATHARSIS





We watch negative things so we can PURGE - cleanse a negative thought.