The Kids Aren't Alright: 'Breaking the Cycle' in Horror
TWs: reference to child abuse, abusers and films that depict abuse - no graphic details of abuse. Contains spoilers for the following films: Sleepaway Camp, Audition, Silent Hill. One of the reasons I love horror is its ability to present real, everyday fears through the lens of the absurd. Some might see Paranormal Activity as a daft romp of privileged white folks in peril, others are drawn to the narrative of society’s dismissal of women’s emotional experiences. The Exorcist features a mother’s brutal fight to have concerns for her child taken seriously, while The Shining depicts alcoholism and violence within the claustrophobic hub of family. 28 Days Later… explores the oppression and commodification of women, whilst Teeth highlights the alienation that women can feel from their bodies, and reminds us to be cautious of even the nice boys. I could go on. Children feature widely in horror. From John and Pearl in Night of the Hunter , little Andy in Child’s Play , Danny