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Comprehension October 2023
Comprehension October 2023
Horror filmmakers could subvert or challenge the clichés discussed in the passage in a number
of ways. For example, they could:
Use the clichés in unexpected ways. For example, instead of having the hero go down to
the dark and creepy basement, they could have the villain come up from the basement
and attack the hero in the living room. Or, instead of having the last girl be a shy and
innocent teenager, they could have her be a tough and resourceful adult woman.
Use the clichés to make a point about the real world. For example, they could use the
cliché of the abandoned house to explore themes of poverty, inequality, and urban decay.
Or, they could use the cliché of the last girl to explore themes of female empowerment
and survival.
Avoid using the clichés altogether. There are many ways to create suspense and fear in
horror films without relying on clichés. For example, filmmakers could focus on creating
realistic and believable characters, or they could use atmospheric elements such as sound
and lighting to create a sense of dread.
2. Why are basements often pictured as scary places in horror films. Discuss.
Basements are often portrayed as scary places in horror films because they are typically dark,
damp, and isolated. They can represent the unknown or the subconscious, and they can be a
place where characters are trapped or vulnerable. No phone coverage.
3. Why do you think horror filmmakers rely on uninhabited places?
Horror films love uninhabited places. This could be an abandoned hospital, a scary empty
house or a ghost town. There's something about lonely, empty places. What was it like when
people lived there? Why did they leave? Maybe it's also that they are so quiet, which can be
very scary too. Of course, abandoned places are also handy for horror film directors in that it's
more believable that you will have no phone coverage there either.
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4. Discussion: Do you like horror films? Can you think of any more horror film clichés?
Answers may vary.