Independent Research- Horror Film Settings

The Overlook Hotel from "The Shining"

A stereotypical horror film will usually take place in one location as it creates the sense of isolation and the fact that there is no escape. This makes the audience feel that there is no hope left for the people in the film which will ultimately lead to their demise. Stereotypical locations in horror films will be place such as churches as they are linked in with the dead and may possibly be haunted. Graveyards are also are common setting as they feature gravestones and are often shown at night to create a dark atmosphere. They often connote the idea of the dead rising from their graves which is a stereotypical plot device used in horror films.

An example of a stereotypical setting is the Overlook Hotel from the film "The Shining". This is a stereotypical setting as its isolated from society as its located in the mountains, making it difficult to get to or get away from. This is effective as the audience knows escape is inevitable.