The study also found The Exorcist tops the list for Brit’s top horror movie and scariest moment, while Nightmare on Elm Street’s Freddy Kreuger is the most feared character
• The average Brit watches 23 horror movies a year
• A relatable and realistic storyline that blurs the lines between fiction and reality is key to a truly scary movie
• The head-spinning scene from The Exorcist named scariest horror movie moment of all time, according to research from Sky Cinema and NOW
With 34million* Brits set to enjoy a horror movie this Halloween, new research from Sky Cinema and NOW has conjured the perfect horror movie formula, revealing the chilling cinematic elements that make Brits’ blood run cold.
According to the study, whilst half (51%) of Brits struggle to sleep after watching a horror movie, 9 in 10 appreciate the unique thrill and rush that comes from being scared by a film. Afterwards, 8 in 10 say they need to do something to put their nerves at ease, like watching something light-hearted (23%), checking around the house (14%) or even sleeping with the lights on (13%).
Despite many movies incorporating guts and gore as a scare tactic, it turns out that this doesn’t phase 88% of Brits at all.
The Fear Factors:
The research identified the most effective horror tropes:
• Realistic horrors: Brits are more fearful of realistic horrors (60%) over traditional guts and gore (12%)
• Anxiety inducing plot: Jump scares (27%) and plot twists (21%)
• Classic villains still terrify: Serial killers or psychopaths (30%) remain the most feared antagonists, followed by demonic or possessed characters (25%) and ghosts or spirits (21%)
• Location, location, location: Secluded areas (80%) and remote locations (77%) are the most fear-inducing settings, proving that isolation amplifies terror
Based on the research findings, Sky Cinema and NOW have identified the key elements for the perfect horror film. It must have a relatable and realistic storyline which blurs the lines between fiction and reality. There should be a healthy dose of jump scares and unexpected plot twists to keep viewers on their toes. A terrifying villain, such as a serial killer, demon, or ghost, to terrify viewers; and an isolated and eerie setting to heighten the sense of dread.
The study also found The Exorcist tops the list for Brit’s top horror movie and scariest moment, while Nightmare on Elm Street’s Freddy Kreuger is the most feared character
Source
SKY
