A comprehensive introduction to the history and key themes of the genre. The main issues and debates raised by horror, and the approaches and theories that have been applied to horror texts are all featured. In addressing the evolution of the horror film in social and historical context, Paul Wells explores how it has reflected and commented upon particular historical periods, and asks how it may respond to the new millennium by citing recent innovations in the genre’s development, such as the ‘urban myth’ narrative underpinning
Candyman and
The Blair Witch Project. Over 300 films are treated, all of which are featured in the filmography.
Cuprins
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. Configuring the Monster
2. Consensus and Constraint 1919–1960
3. Chaos and Collapse
Notes
Glossary
Filmography
Bibliography
Despre autor
Paul Wells is professor of cultural studies at Teesside University. He has written widely on many areas of film studies, particularly comedy, animation, and horror. This book is developed from his award-winning series for BBC Radio,
Spinechillers.