Historical Research: The Historical Haunting of Fear in Possession of Film Communication

• In Event: History Division - Research Presentations (Virtual)
  In Paper Competition: History Division - Research Presentations (Virtual Convention)

Abstract

Abstract
Horror films create a form of communication that draws a range of diverse audiences. The path the horror film industry has traveled has been full of ongoing twists and turns over the years.
The magnetism of horror in the entertainment industry parallels with the encountering of viewer indulgence with experiencing the nature of horror. This study explores the relationship consumers have built with fear as a prominent brand in the marketing industry of horror films. Fear is a communication device that the entertainment industry continues to capitalize on. In light of a historical/critical approach, this analysis will act as a roadmap for unveiling a restored understanding about consumer addictions to fear, by what means the history of horror films has managed to strengthen its grip on the entertainment industry, and in what manner has the evolving marketability of fear become a brand to reckon with over the history of communication in alignment with evolving cultural canons.

Keywords: History of horror film, Fear, Film communication, Horror genre.

Author

• Suha Mohammed, Regent University