The Evolution of Horror Movies

In the age of the internet, where everything has been discussed, dissected, and shared, it seems that the horror genre is struggling to find new ways to shock and transgress. The Reddit post titled "Modern horror movies are all underwhelming because transgression is dead" raises an interesting point about the state of horror films today. With the accessibility of information and the desensitization of audiences, it's becoming increasingly challenging for filmmakers to create truly unsettling and groundbreaking horror experiences. However, while the post suggests that modern horror movies are all underwhelming, there are still examples that manage to push boundaries and deliver thought-provoking narratives.

The Changing Landscape of Transgression:

The post highlights how the last subgenre that could make people uncomfortable, body horror, has become obsolete due to shows like "Dr. P***le Popper" and "Botched." These programs have desensitized viewers to the grotesque, leaving little room for filmmakers to shock audiences with bodily transgressions. However, it's important to note that transgression in horror movies goes beyond mere physical discomfort. It can also involve societal commentary, psychological terror, and the exploration of taboo subjects.

The Potential of Horror to Convey Meaning:

Contrarian1970, a Reddit user, argues that horror movies have always had the potential to say something meaningful. While many horror films may recycle old tropes, there are still those that manage to deliver thought-provoking narratives. Movies like "The Platform" and "The Babadook" tackle social issues and delve into the human psyche, using horror as a vehicle for deeper exploration. These films prove that horror can still be a powerful medium for conveying messages and making audiences uncomfortable in new and relevant ways.

The Persistence of Mediocrity:

Waste_Coat_4506 points out that most horror movies, like any other genre, have always had their fair share of disappointments. While it may seem like there was a golden age of horror in the past, it's important to remember that the gems of each era have been filtered out over time. For every classic like "The Exorcist" or "Carrie," there were countless forgettable and poorly executed horror flicks. This is not unique to horror but rather a common occurrence in the film industry as a whole.

The Power of Storytelling and Innovation:

TheSciFiGuy80 challenges the notion that transgression is dead in modern horror movies. They argue that being scary doesn't necessarily require groundbreaking concepts. Instead, elements like storytelling, atmosphere, characterization, and metaphor can still make a horror movie effective and memorable. They cite examples like "Depraved" and "ALIVE," modern retellings of the Frankenstein story, which managed to offer fresh perspectives and captivate audiences despite the familiarity of the source material.

While it may be true that the internet has exposed us to a plethora of unsettling content, it doesn't mean that transgression is dead in modern horror movies. The genre continues to evolve, finding new ways to shock, provoke thought, and entertain audiences. Filmmakers who embrace innovative storytelling techniques, explore societal issues, and create immersive atmospheres can still create impactful and memorable horror experiences. So, while it may be challenging to find truly groundbreaking horror films amidst the sea of mediocrity, they do exist, waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture beyond the surface.