Horror films - what draws some people to them and not others?

Question

(I've put this in Psychology because I'm interested in understanding that part of the psyche that takes interest in these ideas and images.)

And before you say 'It's not real get over it'. I know that so please don't patronize with your answers.

You either love them or hate them. I personally really don't see the point of them, and it disturbs me that people would 'enjoy' watching the torture and gore that these films capture.

I take no pleasure in the watching of them and sometimes wonder if the producers could have been potential mass murderers provided they didn't have the means to create these flicks. (Example: Hostel)

I suppose it puts me in mind of the Romans and their love of the 'games'.

I really don't get it.

Anyone care to explain where the entertainment value lies in a horror film? Particularly 'the gorier the better' type?

Woops I did put it in Movies - Ah well - answers welcomed anyway.

Answer 1

Horror films traditionally have been about getting your adrenaline going, and people like the thrill. For some, it's sky diving, for others, it's being scared.

However, Night of the Living Dead introduced a new type of horror flick to the world. This low-budgie is revered for bringing a new face to horror; I'm sure there's a name for it, but it's basically the "realistic gross-out" flick. Just there to shock and disgust more than scare. It creeps you out.

And that paved the way for a movie, years later, like Hostel; personally, I'd like to see them prosecute anyone associated with that film. To think we could label something like that "entertainment" makes me weep for today's world.

Answer 2

There are I think many reasons.For example some people I imagine would be atrracted to the thought of knowing these types of cruelty and darkness are able to sooth angry thoughts and exploritory senses that cannot otherwise be fullfilled unless your a wack job.Or many can also be in a similar field of work.For example,special effects,gaming,make up,etc.Wich is thought of as a way of income,other than evil.Even the simple fact of a guy trying to feel like protector of his girl at a movie or (vise versa).If you put your mind into the way others may think,then you can see many different opinions,and perceptions.Hopefully I was helpfull for your psyche intrests.Otherwise I guess im a (wackjob:}.

Answer 3

Personally I love horror film. For me there is nothing quite like watching a film and getting scared half to death, but when it is over you know it's not real ...until you hear a strange noise from upstairs! AAARGGGH what was that? I'm just going to see what made that strange noise, I'll be right back!