The Terrible American Horror Scene in 2016: A Severe Critique

As a seasoned enthusiast of horror movies, I find it hard to comprehend why so many films in the horror genre often fall far short of the mark. Movies like The Wicker Man (1973), Silence of the Lambs, and American Psycho showcase the potential for subtle and terrifying storytelling. Similarly, the psychological horror masterpiece The Babadook stands out as a beacon of quality in recent years. However, 2016 marked a particularly bleak period for the American horror genre, with a plethora of subpar films that failed to meet even the most basic standards of suspense and terror.

My love for horror films is well-known, and yet, the majority of Hollywood’s offerings in 2016 left me quite disappointed. Why is it so challenging to craft a haunting, effective horror movie? What do we lose when talented filmmakers become mired in formulaic scripts and lackluster plots?

Paranormal Activities: The Archetypical Example

When it comes to the 2016 horror film market, one name stands out prominently as a symbol of everything that went wrong: Paranormal Activity. This franchise epitomized the worst of the era, capitalizing on the cheap thrill of prequels without adding any substantial value to the narrative. I have pledged to never watch a Paranormal Activity movie again, and nor do I wish to see any more attempts to make these films. The franchise has done a disservice to the genre and there is a consensus among many that these movies need to be destroyed for the good of future filmmaking. I am currently engaged in negotiations with the Devil himself to ensure that this genre of filmmaking enters an eternal slumber.

Yet, it is worth noting that not all horror movies in 2016 were without merit. Some films managed to create moments of intrigue and fear despite their shortcomings. Consider It Follows, a film that received significant critical acclaim. Despite its decent reviews, I found myself too bored to finish the movie, a rare occurrence. Similarly, Black Christmas was my sole experience with turning off a horror film halfway through, solely due to pervasive boredom. It is a testament to the industry’s struggles that even highly regarded works can fall flat for the discerning viewer.

Keys to a Successful Horror Film

The success of a horror film lies in its ability to create an environment of suspense and emotional resonance with the audience. The most effective horror movies tap into the primal fears and mysteries that have captivated audiences for decades. However, the 2016 horror scene failed to deliver on these fundamentals. Instead, we were subjected to a relentless onslaught of clichés and predictable plot twists.

Directorial choices and cinematography play a pivotal role in crafting a visceral, fear-inducing experience. While some films managed to maintain a degree of tension, many others faltered at the moment of execution, revealing a lack of nuance and depth. Hypnotic visuals and unsettling soundtracks can elevate a movie from good to great, but when these elements are missing, a film often falls short.

Furthermore, the consistency of quality in the cast and crew is crucial. A film with a talented ensemble and experienced professionals behind the camera can breathe life into even the most ostensibly dull plot. Conversely, the absence of these elements often leads to hokey performances and underwhelming direction. In 2016, these factors often combined to produce films that were barely watchable.

Conclusion

2016 was a particularly dismal year for American horror films. The industry seems to have become obsessed with franchises and prequels, sacrificing creativity and originality for quick profits. While there are always a few gems that stand out, the overall quality of the genre suffered. It is time for a renaissance in the horror film realm, one that prioritizes substance over superficial brilliance.

If you miss the excitement and fear that a great horror movie can provide, consider revisiting classics like The Shining, Pan’s Labyrinth, or Rosemary’s Baby. These films continue to captivate audiences with their enduring mystique and timeless elements of fear. Until then, I’ll be boycotting the genre with fervor until it truly deserves to be resurrected.