The Worst Horror Movie Tropes that Ruin the Scariest Moments

Horror movies are a genre known for creating suspense, fear, and even laugh at the predictable and outdated tropes. However, some well-worn clichés can bring a movie down instead of building it up. In this article, we'll explore some of the most annoying and overused tropes in horror movies that often detract from the true horror experience.

1. The Demon Possession 'Phone Call' Metaphor

One of the most grating tropes in horror movies is when a demon possesses a character and makes a call on their behalf. This storyline usually unfolds when a demon possesses a person and says, 'such and such isn’t here right now. I can give them a message. Try again later.' This scenario is deeply redundant and has been featured in films such as The Exorcist, The Rite, and the Evil Dead remake. As a seasoned SEO specialist, this trope has worn thin, and I hope more filmmakers find different ways to handle demon possession scenarios.

2. Throwing Away the Phone

Another annoying trope is when a character throws away their cell phone when it goes out of service. Despite laws requiring other networks to patch through 911 calls on non-registered devices, horror movie characters often discard their phones out of sheer stupidity, only to have them saved in the end. This trope is not only unrealistic but also diminishes the realism of the characters and the plot. It’s a crutch that show just how foolish horror movie characters can be, but it’s a crutch that should be left by the wayside.

3. Predictable Killing of Minor Characters

There are a few tropes that consistently annoy me the most. The first is the portrayal of black characters as the first to be killed off. This stereotype is not only harmful but also unrealistic. Similarly, any sexually active or overly active characters are often killed first in horror movies. These tropes not only undermine minority representation but also trivialize the plot and reduce the suspense. Horror movies should focus on character development and story, rather than relying on these tired and offensive tropes.

4. Visual Overloading vs Psychological Horror

Many horror movies fall into the trap of showing too much of the monster or ghost, leaving little to the imagination. Take, for instance, the 1963 version of The Haunting, which was both frightening and psychological. The majority of the fright came from the unsettling sounds and the unsettling movements of objects, not from visual sightings of a monster. This technique is particularly effective because it leaves the audience with a sense of anticipation and imagination, which are key elements in keeping the fear high.

On the other hand, movies that feature the monster or ghost throughout the film visually often dilute the psychological impact. It becomes easier for the audience to become desensitized to the horror, especially towards the end of the film. This is why horror movies such as 'Alien' and 'Cloverfield' are so effective. They reveal the monster at a crucial moment, maintaining the suspense and leaving a lasting impact on the audience. The less you see, the more you can imagine, and this is a powerful horror technique that should be more widely adopted.

In conclusion, horror movies should focus on creating a psychological impact rather than relying on visual shock. By avoiding these overused and offensive tropes, filmmakers can create a more immersive and spine-tingling experience for their audience.