There are two different stories in horror: internal and external. In external horror films, the evil comes from the outside, the other tribe, this thing in the darkness that we don't understand. Internal is the human heart.
John CarpenterRead
It's a very good time for horror. This business certainly has changed, but there's still room for serious horror films. Look at 28 Days Later, that's not a tongue-in-cheek picture.
Interpretation
Horror films have evolved, yet there remains an audience for serious narratives in this genre.
In this quote, John Carpenter reflects on the shifting landscape of the horror film industry, acknowledging that while trends may change, there is still significant potential for serious and impactful horror storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of authentic horror experiences, using the film '28 Days Later' as an example of a work that takes the genre seriously rather than relying on humor or ironic detachment.
In practice
In a film class discussion, I referenced Carpenter's quote to emphasize the importance of depth in horror storytelling.
There are two different stories in horror: internal and external. In external horror films, the evil comes from the outside, the other tribe, this thing in the darkness that we don't understand. Internal is the human heart.
What scares me is what scares you. We're all afraid of the same things. That's why horror is such a powerful genre. All you have to do is ask yourself what frightens you and you'll know what frightens me.
Film buffs who don't live in Hollywood have a fantasy about what it's like to be a director. Movies and the people who make movies have such glamour associated with them. But the truth is, it's not like that. It's very different. It's hard work.
Chic is a kind of mayonnaise, either it tastes, or it doesn't.
My songs are personal music, they're not communal. I wouldn't want people singing along with me. It would sound funny. I'm not playing campfire meetings. I don't remember anyone singing along with Elvis, Carl Perkins or Little Richard.
Writing poetry is what I am. I wouldnβt know what else to be.
Arabic is very twisting, very beautiful. The call to prayer is quite haunting; it almost makes you a believer on the spot.
Fashion is transient, trends come and go. I believe in style, not fashion.
I don't believe a person has a style. What people have is a way of photographing what is inside them. What is there comes out.
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