Horror movies are often thought to be just jumpscares and gore, or stories about ghosts and masked killers. However, the genre is so diverse and includes films that explore themes beyond supernatural horrors, offering deeper, more moving narratives. These themes bring awareness to people around the world who may not be so educated on social problems. An example of this would be Jordan Peele. Once known for his comedic sketches on “Key and Peele,” he is now a celebrated director in the horror genre. His films often explore themes such as racism and social class.
Despite having directed only three films, “Us”, “Get Out” and “Nope”. His innovative ideas continue to impress audiences and his unique directing style and concepts make his movies compelling to watch. Notably, Peele made history as the first Black screenwriter to win an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay with “Get Out,” showcasing his ability to blend horror with social commentary.
MCHS freshman Jadeline Estrada, an active participant in the film club, notes her opinion on one of the most famous scenes from Jordan Peele’s most renowned film, “Get Out”.
“I found the teacup scene in ‘Get Out’ really interesting because of the visuals and the effect it had on Chris,” Estrada said.
“The infamous teacup scene in ‘Get Out’ depicts Chris entering ‘The Sunken Place’. This scene is done by one of the characters stirring a teacup to plunge him into a hypnotic state. Jordan Peele himself said that the teacup is symbolic to the slavery era where wives of slave owners would strike their teacup to summon the house slaves. It is also said in this article that he is specifically talking about the U.S slavery era. Jordan Peele’s inclusion of this object fits in with what ‘Get Out’ is about, white people succeeding because of the discrimination and murder of black people.”
Even older films can have diverse discussions that spread awareness on different issues, an example of that is the 1992 film, Candyman. A film that goes beyond the urban legend it’s based on and addresses themes like brutality against black people and the suppression of black history. Although Candyman’s actions are for his legacy, they are also to encourage the community to confront and share stories about the systemic racism and brutalities that Black people have endured across generations.
In an interview by SciFi Now with the Candyman director, Bernard Rose, he said this about the horror genre exploring other issues,
“I think that horror has always been a genre where people can confront their fears. And you can tell a lot about society by what they’re afraid of. Even in literature in the 19th century, a lot of the things that people still read and still cherish were in the horror genre, everything from Mary Shelley to Edgar Allan Poe to Bram Stoker. It’s interesting how those books are still very much in the mainstream,” Rose said.
Rose’s answer reflects the duality of the horror genre: how we can talk more about the fears that people have that are not fictional or not possible. The Candyman movies are notable in this discussion, as they also show the horrors, discrimination and prejudice that black people face in real life..
Horror movies explore serious topics not just for entertainment, but to provoke thought, spark discussions, and inspire change. While some viewers might overlook or be unaware of these themes, film media is a powerful tool for spreading important messages. Just like Rose said, through symbolism, horror movies can subtly yet effectively highlight global issues, encouraging audiences to reflect on real-world problems.
Estrada states her hopes on the change she would like to see with using symbolism in these movies.
“I hope that discussions that symbolism in movies will provoke among viewers are important issues in the real world. I think this because it’s cool when viewers start thinking deeply about things like power, inequality, or fear. A really good horror movie doesn’t just make you jump; it sticks with you and makes you rethink what’s normal in society or what you believe,” Estrada said.
Horror movies are more than what is seen on screen; the deeper meaning is what makes the genre so unique. Directors use the power of horror to address many issues that help our community to confront the problems of the world and reflect on our own beliefs.
