carol clover theory:
Carol Clover has several theories about horror.
- The first aim of horror cinema is to play to masochistic fears (enjoyment of pain) and desires in its audience. - Sadhism (enjoy causing pain to others) has its place, but masochism dominates. - The Final Girl is the sole survivor who either kills the killer or escapes. We must identify with her that there is no other characters to choose from except her. Also she tends to be ugly, intelligent and a virgin. - She shows that men can identify with women, that a women can employ an active investigating gaze without being punished, and that masochism can be a potent source of cinematic gaze. - Female killers have gender confusion or other problems - Killers usually have childhood issues or are sexually disturbed. - Victims tend to be young girls who are vulnerable but have had sexual experiences. - No guns are used, if they are in the scene they tend not to work. BC & HF |