SHOTS AND ANGLES USED IN HORROR

FILMS

By Jessica Lennon

BIRD’S EYE/HIGH ANGLE

These shots are typically used in

horror films to make the character who

is being looked down upon seem

inferior, powerless or

vulnerable

CLOSE UP

Close ups in horror films are used to see

detailed reactions on the actor/actresses

face. From these shots the audience can

gain knowledge about how the character is

feeling. They are also used to capture

details in important scenes.

TRACKING OR DOLLY SHOTThere shots connote movement. Theses shots

are used very effectively in horror as they can

give the effect that a character is being followed

or watched. They could also be used to establish

a scene so the audience have a full view.

Dolly shots can also be used to build tension as

the view does not know what is going to be

shown

next.

REVERSE

These shots can also be very effective in

horror films as it can show consequences of

actions and what would happen if you went

back in time. It shows a character undergoing

realization and the suspense is built up. In

addition it is a great way to signify flash

backs.

TILTED ANGLE

Tilted shots add a lot of dramatic tension

to a scene. Another way tilted angle shots

can be used is to give the feel that the

audience is in the place

of the victim, perhaps on the floor.

EXTREME LONG SHOT/LONG SHOT

Many horror films open with a long

shot to add impact. For example to

show how deserted a town is.

LOW ANGLE

Low angle shots are very powerful in how

they can emphasize just how scary or

intimidating a villain is. This establishes for

the

audience the power this villain has over

the victim.

HAND HELD CAMERA

This technique is often used in horror

films to add a sense of realism for the

audience. It makes the audience feel

more involved in the

film, adding tension throughout.

POINT OF VIEW SHOT

This is where the audience is put in

place of the character and sees

everything through the eyes of the

character during that scene. This can

build tension in films as it can reveal

the fears of victims or intentions

of villains.

OVER THE SHOULDER

These are used a lot in horrors to build

tension. They are used to add tension,

especially around mirrors so the audience can

see what is happening as soon as the character

can. Over the shoulder shots are also often

used to

show that a character is being followed or to

keep the identity of the villain a mystery.