Character types in horror films
- 1. Character Types in Horror Films
- 2. HERO • Very much a male, masculine, alpha male figure. Although they have tended to be female in post-modern films. • Brave character who tends not to show emotion to lead the group and stay strong when others may be distraught.
- 3. Non-Believer • Portrayed as very cocky and overconfident. • Convinces other characters that they’re overreacting and often end up killed first OR faces the reality of the plot and acts like an infant when he is frightened.
- 4. Female Victim • Portrayed as very weak and vulnerable and requires protection. • Are young and attractive and often blonde. • Follows the blonde stereotypes of being stupid, attractive and annoying. • Her behaviour puts the audience on edge and triggers fake scares on unnecessary occasions.
- 5. Loved up couple • A relationship between two characters who are all over each other. • They leave the group and are so preoccupied with each other don’t notice the killer • One of them will die leaving the other distraught. (Usually as they are about to have sex)
- 6. Hysterical Character • Fragile female figure (Can be a fragile male) • As they break down into hysterics after witnessing the death of a friend. • Frustrates the audience as they don’t refuse to leave when in danger. • This character will either die as a result of staying put OR the other characters will be hunted down with her saved until last.
- 7. Evil Character • Comes in different forms; Serial killer, demonic possession, ghost, monster (E.g. vampire, werewolf, zombie). • If they are human they would wear masks disguising their identity and emotions. • Inhuman as they take a lot to be wounded or even killed. If they are stabbed they manage to get back up with minimal harm. • Other evil characters play on our fears of monstrous creatures which we believe do not exist.