This research explores the history of the horror genre, from storytelling to books to films from the 1930s to the present. There are multiple components that go into making a horror film, tactics used by the director, aesthetics such as lighting and camera movements and positions, music and sound effects. This presentation illustrates the connection between the psychology behind horror films and how the elements connect with fear. This research explores how psychological effects can also result in physical effects when watching a horror film. Psychological effects range from hallucinations to anxiety and fear while physical effects range from increased heart rate and blood pressure to lack of sleep. The content of this paper seeks to answer the following questions: What makes a horror film successful? Are horror films successful if they have psychological and/or physical effects on people who watch them?
