Understanding Horror Films: A Media Studies Quiz

Who argued the function of horror is to scare, shock, revolt, or otherwise horrify the viewer?

• Brigid Cherry

• Thomas Schatz

• Steve Neale

• David Hesmondhalgh

Answer explanation

Brigid Cherry argued that the function of horror is to scare, shock, revolt, or otherwise horrify the viewer, making her the correct choice.

What does iconography in horror films refer to?

• The narrative structure of horror stories

• The use of lighting to create suspense

• The role of music and sound effects

• The pattern of signs associated with the genre

Answer explanation

Iconography in horror films refers to the pattern of signs associated with the genre, such as recurring symbols, images, and themes that evoke fear and suspense.

Which score is famous for its use of deep bass sounds and screeching violins?

• Jaws by John Williams

• Aliens by James Horner

• Halloween by John Carpenter

• Psycho by Bernard Hermann

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'Psycho by Bernard Hermann' as it is famous for its use of deep bass sounds and screeching violins, creating an iconic and chilling score.

What is the term used to describe the use of strong contrasts between light and dark in a composition?

• Diegetic sound

• Chiaroscuro

• Montage

• Framing

Answer explanation

Chiaroscuro is the term used to describe the use of strong contrasts between light and dark in a composition, creating a sense of volume and three-dimensionality.

Which of the following is not a horror subgenre mentioned?

• Romantic

• Psychological

• Gothic

• Slasher

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'Romantic' because it is not a horror subgenre mentioned in the question.

What theory did Sigmund Freud propose that relates to horror films?

• Psychosexual development

• Oedipus complex

• The uncanny

• Dream analysis

Answer explanation

Sigmund Freud proposed the theory of 'The uncanny' which relates to horror films, exploring unsettling, mysterious, and eerie elements that evoke fear.

Which film's poster is analyzed for its horror iconography in the text?

• The Conjuring

• The Exorcist

• It Follows

• Ringu

Answer explanation

The film's poster analyzed for its horror iconography in the text is 'The Conjuring'.

What is the main reason horror films continue to be profitable according to the text?

• Large production budgets

• Celebrity star power

• High demand for sequels

• Low production costs

Answer explanation

The main reason horror films continue to be profitable is due to their low production costs, as mentioned in the text.

Who is associated with the theory of the 'final girl' in horror movies?

• Carol J. Clover

• Laura Mulvey

• bell hooks

• Jean Baudrillard

Answer explanation

The theory of the 'final girl' in horror movies is associated with Carol J. Clover, making her the correct choice.

Which theory suggests that horror films can be life-affirming by allowing viewers to confront fears in a safe environment?

• Cultivation Theory

• Uses and Gratifications

• Hypodermic Needle Theory

• Two-Step Flow Theory

Answer explanation

The Uses and Gratifications theory suggests that horror films can be life-affirming by allowing viewers to confront fears in a safe environment.