Expected genre features of horror/The Ring analysis

Within this post, I will list some of the expected features which should be apparent in a horror film trailer. Additionally, I will include an analysis of the horror film 'The Ring' which we discussed in class.

Features to expect

·         Low key lighting

·         Blood

·         Juxtaposition of loud and quite

·         Enhanced sound

·         Tense soundtrack

·         Voiceover

·         Screaming

·         Quick editing – jump cuts

·         Weapons and violence

The Ring analysis

Camera angles/movement:

Lots of close-up shots to show significant of objects and the effects they can create.

Point of view shots from both good and evil so that the viewer can understand both point of views.

Child is always looked down upon, however he gets a lot of screen time which represents his importance within the film. This emphasises that the child is innocent and naive.

Mise-en-scene:

Low key lighting and areas are very dark to create mystery and the unknown.

Clothing of both the child and adult are very casual which suggests innocence. Ironically, the boy is not innocent and plays a big part in the film.

Editing:

Quick editing with lots of jump cuts make the film look dramatic and builds up suspense.

Certain scenes which are binary opposites are juxtaposed to create a sense of insecurity and nothing is ever safe.

There are no fades of dissolves as this is a very action pact film which wants to scare the viewer as much as possible. Both physically and psycho  

Sound:

There is very upbeat soundtrack which gets faster as the trailer progresses. Instruments are very dramatic and alternate between low notes and high notes. This created suspense and heightens the horror.

Voiceover at the very beginning introduces the trailer and accompanies the soundtrack well. Makes the audience unsure for what to expect.