Supernatural Possession: a Horror Sub-Genre That Transcends the Screen

EN2204 READING THE HORROR FILM

Supernatural Possession:

A Horror Sub-Genre That Transcends the Screen

TAN HAN WEI

A0074976L

TUTORIAL CLASS W2

Introduction

The Exorcist (William Friedkin, 1973) has emerged as one of the greatest horror film of all time (Time Out). It was the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture for the Academy Award (WB_EXORCIST). According to Tony Earnshaw, this film sets the benchmark for the horror genre (Earnshaw). Therefore, we can say that a new sub-genre has emerged, which is the supernatural possession. By applying Thomas Schatz’s genre theory, we can say that this sub-genre is in the experimental stage (Schatz 10).

How has this sub-genre evolved from 1973 to 20th century? In this paper, the genre evolution will be discussed by comparing The Exorcist and The Exorcism of Emily Rose (Scott Derrickson, 2005). By applying Thomas Schatz’s theory, this paper asserts that the supernatural possession sub-genre has evolved into the refinement stage, with a shift of thematic concern from individual fear to society fear.

The two films are representative based on narrative similarities and significance in horror film history. Notably, The Exorcist receives 14 nominations and 16 wins and The Exorcism of Emily Rose receives 7 nominations and 4 wins (IMDB). In summary, both films are about a girl being possessed and the act of exorcism is needed. The following sections will discuss the sub-genre’s evolution in terms of its cinematic techniques and narrative elements.

Cinematic Techniques

In terms of mise-en-scene, both films apply the horror conventions of lighting and costumes. However, both films uses different approach to show the effect of being possessed. For instance, The Exorcist uses props and make ups that are more complex. Stylistically, we can see that most horror elements of the film is very graphical. The film uses violence, gore and profanity to frighten the audience. The use of green pea soup and the...