The new American horror arguably began in the mid-2010s, marked by a shift toward socially conscious narratives, sophisticated aesthetics, and a rejection of predictable jump scares in favor of slow-burn dread and psychological unease. This “elevated horror,” while drawing on classic tropes, actively engages with contemporary anxieties surrounding race, gender, class, and societal decay.
The Dawn of a Darker Age: Redefining American Horror
Pinpointing the exact genesis of any artistic movement is a complex undertaking. However, the resurgence of American horror that has captivated and terrified audiences in recent years isn’t a sudden event, but rather a gradual evolution. While elements had been simmering for years, the mid-2010s represent a clear inflection point, a moment when the genre noticeably pivoted toward a new, more intellectually and emotionally demanding form.
Several factors converged during this period. Firstly, independent filmmaking gained greater prominence, empowering voices that had traditionally been marginalized. Secondly, the social and political climate became increasingly fraught, providing fertile ground for filmmakers to explore relevant anxieties through the lens of horror. And thirdly, audiences, saturated with predictable slasher flicks and jump-scare reliant ghost stories, grew increasingly receptive to more nuanced and thought-provoking narratives.
This isn’t to say that horror before 2015 was devoid of merit. However, films like The Babadook (2014), It Follows (2014), and The Witch (2015) established a new benchmark, prioritizing atmosphere, character development, and thematic depth over cheap thrills. These films, along with the surge in popularity of TV shows like American Horror Story, which, while not always consistent in quality, pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on television, laid the groundwork for the explosion of “elevated horror” we see today.
The Pillars of the New American Horror
Several key characteristics define this new wave of American horror, distinguishing it from its predecessors:
- Social Commentary: The new horror is rarely just about monsters or supernatural forces. Instead, it uses these elements as metaphors for real-world issues. Get Out (2017) powerfully tackles issues of race and cultural appropriation, while Hereditary (2018) explores themes of family trauma and mental illness.
- Atmosphere Over Jump Scares: The emphasis is on creating a pervasive sense of dread and unease rather than relying on cheap jump scares. Slow-burn tension, unsettling visuals, and unsettling sound design are crucial components.
- Complex Characters: The protagonists are often flawed and relatable, dealing with complex emotions and difficult situations. Their struggles become intertwined with the horror elements, making the experience more emotionally resonant.
- Psychological Depth: The horror often resides within the minds of the characters. Psychological manipulation, gaslighting, and the breakdown of sanity are common themes.
- Artistic Aesthetics: The new horror frequently embraces a more sophisticated visual style, incorporating artful cinematography, meticulously crafted sets, and evocative sound design.
Key Films and Figures
While The Babadook, It Follows, and The Witch are crucial precursors, several films released after 2015 cemented the arrival of the new American horror:
- Jordan Peele’s Get Out (2017): A landmark film that revolutionized the genre with its sharp social commentary and masterful blend of horror and satire.
- Ari Aster’s Hereditary (2018): A deeply disturbing and emotionally resonant film exploring themes of family trauma and mental illness.
- Robert Eggers’ The Lighthouse (2019): A visually stunning and psychologically unsettling film that delves into themes of isolation and madness.
- Mike Flanagan (various projects): His Netflix series, like The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, showcase his talent for crafting emotionally complex and terrifying narratives.
These filmmakers, along with others like Jennifer Kent, Ana Lily Amirpour, and Nia DaCosta, represent a new generation of horror auteurs pushing the boundaries of the genre and challenging audiences to confront uncomfortable truths.
FAQ: Delving Deeper into the New American Horror
Here are some frequently asked questions about the new American horror, providing further insights into this evolving genre:
H3: What exactly is meant by “elevated horror”?
“Elevated horror” is a term used to describe horror films that prioritize artistic merit, thematic depth, and social commentary over traditional horror tropes like jump scares and gore. It aims to be more intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant than traditional horror, often exploring complex psychological themes and social issues.
H3: Is “elevated horror” just a pretentious label?
While some argue that the term “elevated horror” is pretentious, it serves as a shorthand to distinguish a particular style of horror filmmaking from more conventional fare. It highlights the film’s ambition to be more than just a scare-fest, aiming for artistic and intellectual merit.
H3: How is the new American horror different from slasher films?
Slasher films typically focus on graphic violence, masked killers, and predictable plot structures. The new American horror, on the other hand, prioritizes atmosphere, psychological tension, complex characters, and social commentary. While violence may be present, it is often used sparingly and to serve a larger thematic purpose.
H3: Does the new American horror have to be overtly political?
Not necessarily. While many examples of the new American horror engage with social and political issues, the core element is the exploration of complex themes and anxieties through the lens of horror. A film can be considered part of this movement even if it doesn’t explicitly address political topics, as long as it exhibits the other characteristics mentioned.
H3: Are jump scares completely absent from the new American horror?
While jump scares are not the primary focus, they may still be used strategically to enhance the overall atmosphere of dread and unease. However, they are typically less frequent and more impactful than in traditional horror films.
H3: What role does sound design play in the new American horror?
Sound design is crucial in creating a sense of unease and dread. Unsettling ambient sounds, dissonant music, and subtle sound effects can all contribute to the overall atmosphere of the film, amplifying the psychological impact on the viewer.
H3: What are some common themes explored in the new American horror?
Common themes include family trauma, mental illness, social inequality, environmental anxieties, the fear of the unknown, and the breakdown of societal structures.
H3: Are there any foreign films that can be considered part of this “new wave” of horror?
Absolutely. While we are specifically discussing American horror, many foreign films share similar characteristics and can be considered part of this broader movement. Examples include Raw (France), Baskin (Turkey), and Under the Shadow (Iran).
H3: What is the future of the new American horror?
The future of the new American horror is bright. As audiences continue to demand more sophisticated and thought-provoking narratives, filmmakers will continue to push the boundaries of the genre, exploring new themes and challenging conventional expectations. We can expect to see more diverse voices and perspectives represented in the genre, further enriching its artistic landscape.
H3: Has this “new wave” influenced mainstream horror?
Yes, significantly. The success of films like Get Out and Hereditary has demonstrated the commercial viability of elevated horror, influencing mainstream studios to take more risks and invest in projects with greater thematic depth.
H3: Where can I find more examples of the new American horror?
Beyond the films already mentioned, look to directors like David Robert Mitchell (It Follows), Oz Perkins (February), and Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (Resolution, The Endless). Streaming services like Shudder offer curated collections of horror films, including many examples of the new American horror.
H3: Is the new American Horror here to stay, or is it a passing fad?
While trends come and go, the core principles of what make the new American horror so compelling – thoughtful storytelling, deep thematic exploration, and a focus on psychological dread – are likely to endure. It represents a significant evolution of the genre and is unlikely to be completely replaced by another fleeting trend. The appetite for intelligent and emotionally resonant horror is strong, suggesting this era of cinematic terror has a long and impactful future.