how to write a horror movie review

Exploring Horror in Comics, Fiction, and Film

How to Write a Riveting Horror Movie Review: Tips gleaned from Reading the Experts

If you’re a fan of horror movies, chances are you’ve thought about writing a horror movie review, right? Maybe you’ve already been playing around on Letterbox, but you want to up your game. So, where do you start? What should you include? And how do you make your review stand out from the rest? This post will answer these questions by sharing expert advice from renowned horror film critics. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to craft an impactful and engaging horror movie review that will make knees tremble and spines collapse.

As a huge movie fan and a student of film, I’ve spent years not only watching and reviewing movies (mainly in the horror and sci-fi genres) but also reading the professional critics. So, for this post, I’ve paraphrased the advice from the following fine folks who are rightfully considered the best of the best:

Roger Ebert : Although not exclusively a horror movie critic, Ebert was renowned for his reviews in the Chicago Sun-Times. His ability to appreciate the artistic value in a broad range of films, including horror, made his opinions highly respected. Ebert’s reviews often delved into the deeper themes and techniques used in horror films.

Kim Newman : An English journalist and film critic, Newman is known for his in-depth knowledge of and passion for horror movies. He has written several books on the subject and often explores the history and evolution of the genre in his reviews.

Pauline Kael : As a critic for The New Yorker, Kael was known for her witty, biting, and highly opinionated reviews. Her takes on horror films, though not exclusively her focus, were influential in the critical landscape.

Mark Kermode : A British critic known for his work with BBC Radio, Kermode has a deep love for horror cinema. His reviews are often insightful, blending a fan’s enthusiasm with a critic’s eye.

James Agee : A film critic in the 1940s and ’50s, Agee’s reviews for Time and The Nation often touched on horror films. His critiques were known for their literary quality and depth of insight.

Rue Morgue Magazine Contributors : While not a single critic, this magazine has been a significant voice in horror criticism since the late 1990s. Its contributors offer a range of perspectives on contemporary and classic horror films.

Maitland McDonagh : As the senior movies editor at TV Guide and the author of several books on film, McDonagh has particular expertise in horror and has been praised for her insightful and knowledgeable critiques.

Key Takeaways

• Writing a horror movie review requires a solid understanding of the horror genre.
• A well-structured review includes an introduction , plot summary , analysis , and conclusion .
• One of the crucial aspects of a horror movie is its atmosphere and mood.
• Thoroughly analyzing the themes, visuals, and performances in a horror film is essential.
• Remember to incorporate your perspective while maintaining objectivity.

Understanding the Horror Genre: Key Elements and Themes

If you want to write a great horror movie review, it’s essential to understand the horror genre . Horror movies are unique in that they aim to scare, shock, and thrill audiences while exploring themes such as fear, death, and the unknown. Here are some of the key elements and themes you can expect to find in horror films:

While some horror movies may incorporate the above elements, others may focus on just a few. It’s up to you to analyze and evaluate how well the elements and themes are utilized in the movie you are reviewing.

Structuring Your Horror Movie Review

Writing a well-structured horror movie review is essential to ensure readers can easily follow your analysis and understand your perspective. In this section, we will guide you through the key sections of a horror movie review, including the introduction, plot summary, analysis, and conclusion.

Introduction

The introduction sets the tone for your review, giving readers an overview of the film and your perspective. You can start with a summary of the movie, highlighting the key elements that make it a horror film. It’s also a good idea to express your initial thoughts on the movie and share your expectations before diving into the details.

Plot Summary

A plot summary provides a brief overview of the movie, including the setting, characters, and main events. While it’s crucial to avoid spoilers, you should provide enough details to help readers understand the context of your analysis. Try to emphasize the key scenes that help drive the horror element of the movie forward.

The analysis is the most crucial section of your horror movie review, where you can showcase your perspective on the movie. Consider the major elements of the film, such as the storyline, characters, cinematography, and directing. Analyze these elements and describe how they contribute to the overall horror experience. It’s a good idea to provide examples to support your observations and offer unique insights your audience may not have considered.

The Conclusion

The conclusion is your final chance to leave an impression on your readers. Summarize your key observations and opinions, highlighting what you consider to be the most impactful aspects of the movie. Do not simply repeat your introduction. Try to leave your audience with a final thought that encapsulates the essence of your review and entices them to watch the movie.

Capturing the Atmosphere and Mood in Your Review

The atmosphere and mood in a horror movie play a crucial role in conveying its impact. A successful review must effectively capture and convey the immersive experience of a horror film. Here are some tips on how to achieve this:

• Describe the setting : The physical environment of a horror movie can create a sense of dread and unease. Pay attention to the details of the setting and describe how it contributes to the overall atmosphere.
• Discuss the use of music and sound : Music and sound effects are powerful tools in creating an immersive experience . Analyze how the music and sound design contribute to the tone and mood of the film.
• Focus on the lighting and cinematography : The visuals in a horror film can be just as impactful as the story itself. Pay attention to the lighting and cinematography, and describe how they create a mood and atmosphere that enhances the film’s horror.
• Comment on the pacing : The pace of a horror movie can heighten tension and suspense. Discuss how the pacing contributes to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film and how it affects the viewer’s emotions.
• Use descriptive language : Use descriptive language to evoke the atmosphere and mood of the film. For example, use words like “claustrophobic,” “eerie,” and “unsettling” to help readers understand the emotional impact of the film.

By incorporating these tips, you can create an immersive experience for your readers and effectively convey the horror film’s essence.

Analyzing the Horror Movie: Themes, Visuals, and Performances

Effective analysis of a horror movie involves examining the various elements that contribute to its impact. This section will delve into the themes, visuals, and performances of a horror film, providing valuable insights and observations.

Themes in Horror Films

Horror movies often explore universal themes such as death, fear, and the supernatural. However, many films also incorporate social and cultural commentary into their stories, offering a deeper layer of meaning. When analyzing the themes of a horror movie, consider the following:

• What social or cultural messages is the film conveying?
• How does the movie explore universal themes?
• Is there a moral or ethical statement being made?

Visual Elements

The visual elements of a horror movie play an essential role in creating atmosphere and setting the film’s tone. When analyzing the visual elements , consider the following:

• How does the movie use lighting, color, and camera angles to create suspense?
• What is the significance of the setting and how does it contribute to the film’s overall mood?
• How does the movie use sound and music to enhance the horror experience?

Performances in Horror Movies

The actors’ performances in horror movies can make or break the film’s impact. When analyzing performances, consider the following:

• How do the actors convey fear and suspense?
• What is the impact of the performances on the audience?
• Does the movie use jump scares or more nuanced performances to create horror?

The Wrap-Up

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of The Longbox of Darkness guide on writing a horror movie review . With tips and guidance from renowned horror film critics, you are now equipped to write an impactful review that captures the essence of the movie. Remember, it’s okay to incorporate your personal perspective while maintaining objectivity.

A Final Few Thoughts

Always remember the key elements and themes commonly found in horror films. Structure your review to ensure clarity and coherence, covering important sections like the introduction, plot summary, analysis, and conclusion. Focus on capturing the atmosphere and mood of the movie, allowing readers to connect with the film on a deeper level. Finally, analyze the various elements of a horror movie such as themes, visuals, and performances to provide valuable insights and observations.

Now get out there and start racking up those reviews. And if any of you have Letterbox accounts, drop them in the comments below. I’d love to follow you and read your reviews. Keep it creepy, fear film fans!

FAQ of Fear!

How do i write a great horror movie review.

To write a great horror movie review, start by watching the film with a critical eye. Take note of the key elements such as the plot, characters, and atmosphere. Then, structure your review with an introduction, plot summary, analysis, and conclusion. Finally, be sure to incorporate your perspective while maintaining objectivity.

What should I include in the introduction of my horror movie review?

In the introduction of your horror movie review, provide a brief overview of the film and set the tone for your analysis. Include the movie’s title, the director, and any relevant background information that will help readers understand the context of your review.

How do I capture the atmosphere and mood of the horror film in my review?

To capture the atmosphere and mood of the horror film in your review, focus on describing the cinematography, sound design, and overall ambiance of the movie. Use vivid language and specific examples to convey the immersive experience and evoke the emotions that the film elicits.

What should I analyze in a horror movie review?

Analyzing elements such as the underlying themes, visual elements, and actors’ performances is crucial in a horror movie review. Discuss the effectiveness of the scares, the symbolism portrayed, and the impact of the horror elements on the film’s overall narrative.

How can I make my horror movie review impactful?

To make your horror movie review impactful, ensure your writing is engaging, descriptive, and insightful. Use specific examples from the film to support your analysis and provide valuable insights. Additionally, share your perspective and connect with your readers by expressing your passion for the genre.

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Categorized | Articles

Taking a bite out of horror: a guide to reviewing horror films like the pros.

Posted on January 7, 2007 by Monica Valentinelli

Written by Kristin Battestella Additional Writing by Monica Valentinelli

Introduction

Horror-genre lovers (like you and me) can’t resist sharing our love of the macabre. If we tell our friends about a dog of a film, they probably won’t go to see it. How then do we write a film review that finds the happy medium between gushing over the latest hit and bashing that worthless dud?

Whether you’re writing for print or online media, film reviews typically address certain topics like; the grading system, what you liked and didn’t like, who made the film, who stars in it, and whether or not you would recommend the movie to others. Genre reviews should contain these standards, of course, but when it comes to a horror movie, there are several more pieces of essential criteria that can help flesh out your review.

Fear Factor and Gut-Wrenching Emotions

If you don’t discuss fear in a horror review, you probably shouldn’t be a horror reviewer. Most fans want to know what “type” of horror movie they’re going to see, so if the film was unintentionally funny and didn’t scare you one iota, say so. However, if you are a big, macho guy and the movie terrified you into crying like there’s no tomorrow, you should include this in your commentary because the horror genre isn’t only about fear—it’s about the entire emotional gamut. The “best” in horror films don’t just terrify you—they pump your heart and send you on a roller coaster ride. Take the classic film, The Exorcist , for example. Fans, both new and old, never grow out of the terror spawned from Blatty’s book and movie. Society’s fear of the devil (as well as some pretty morally-shocking scenes), is enough to give any horror film the upper hand, but The Exorcist succeeds because we care about the family involved. Most films (unless they are only about the slash-and-gore) are made this way. As a reviewer, tell us about the ups and downs in this movie—we want to know both.

SFX and the Gore Factor

Old-fashioned horror movies have no effects at all, except for tricks of the camera, special lighting, and some heavy makeup. In today’s age, however, if you’re writing about horror films, most movies have some kind of special effects that warrant a paragraph or two in your review. If the director doesn’t use any, like in The Blair Witch Project , if the effects are so low-budget it takes away from the film, or if they are the best thing you’ve seen since the first time you saw The Matrix , by all means say so. Remember, though, that the movie is more than just computer-generated imagery and blue screens. Be a stickler for sets, costumes, and props because realistic blood splatter does matter! So if that axe is obviously made of rubber, mention that because, like most fans, some of those details can take away from an otherwise decent movie.

The amount of gore in a horror film can often sway fans one way or the other. Silly deaths, cliché murders, unrealistic stunts and high body counts–if there is too little (or too much) blood and the sight of it suffocates an otherwise great plot, include that in your review. We love to watch horror films, but since there are so many sub-genres, writing about the hack-and-slash factor is essential.

Plot Twists and Common Myths

To many purists and fans, plot is more important than how amazingly visual a film is. If the plot is silly or has hokey dialogue, a lot of people will turn off their TV or walk out of a theatre, no matter how perfect the special effects are. Pay close attention; see if you can find the back stories for the characters or the plot. Can you figure out why that poltergeist is sticking around? Are you sure you know why zombies are coming back to life? Within the horror genre, there are lots of ghosts, ghouls, vampires, and demonic myths out there. Take vampires for example. There are classic films like Fright Night , and then there are newer films like John Carpenter’s Vampires: Los Muertos . How does the film you’re reviewing compare to other films? Is there a decent vampire creation myth? Or is it so unbelievable it’s “too” inventive?

Most horror movies have a plot twist that leaves you breathless. Whether or not you include “the twist” in your review is totally up to you—sooner or later the surprise ending is going to leak out to the fans. So when you are commenting on it, write about whether or not the plot twist works or if it felt like it was just some cheesy add-on.

Playing the Right Part

You might not think characters, the actors who play them, or how the director presents his film matter as much as some of the other elements we’ve discussed, but maybe, just maybe, they’re the most important. As part of the audience, we need to root for the good guy, we want him to survive at the end. Likewise, we should “love to hate” the bad guys or truly fear the villain and dread the nightmares of his evil deeds. If an actor is miscast or just doesn’t feel right wearing his character’s shoes, a horror film will fall apart. Don’t get sucked in by a famous name; some actors are better in sappy dramas and comedies than in a thriller. Cite the actresses’ credentials, but don’t base her performance on another work. For example, Freddy Krueger actor, Robert Englund, played the benign alien visitor Willie in V , and the quintessential jedi, actor Mark Hamill jumpstarted his voice acting career by lending his talents for the popular villain, The Joker, in Batman: Mask of the Phantasm . One of the worst assumptions you, as a reviewer, can make is to also assume an unknown “name” can’t act. Many directors, like Joss Whedon, prefer casting unknown actors so that we see a familiar character with fresh eyes. Be objective; your readers will appreciate your review more.

International Screams

One thing that many of us reviewers are seeing a lot more of these days, are re-released films produced outside of the U.S. Nightwatch, The Descent, The Grudge, and Dog Soldiers , are just a few films we have the pleasure (or the horror) of seeing here in the states. Cultural influences should not sway your review because horror fans exist all over the world; we’ll continue to see a rise in European and Asian film releases over the next, few years. To get around potential cultural pitfalls, be upfront about the film’s origin and cultural innuendos that you may not understand but someone else might. If the American is woefully out of place in a British film or if the gore in a Japanese original is too much, share that with your readers as your opinion. There are many differences between the world’s cultures, and there’s nothing worse than a film that gets trashed because someone just doesn’t “get it.” One example of this is The Grudge . Did you know that American ghosts are vastly different from wraiths in Asia because they’re based on different religious and cultural beliefs?

From the Director

Anybody with a camera can make a horror movie, but the genius of a tried-and-true director can enhance and redefine the genre. Look for unusual shots and camera angles or carefully choreographed fight sequences. Sometimes lighting techniques are lost, due to modern editing processes, but make a note of what might be lurking in the shadows. How dark does the picture look? Too dark to see who is who? Or is it just dark enough for you to see the big, bad werewolf’s eyes? The director sets the atmosphere and places everything within the setting to his liking, so tell your reader if the film was a job well done.

Yet Another Sequel and the Right Audience

Many horror films are either remakes or sequels to an original and have been very popular, both in Hollywood and abroad. You should definitely comment on where the film is in a series or if it’s a modernized version of classic films like The Omen . Sometimes, a movie you’re watching will make you feel like there might be enough loose ends left for a sequel. Sadly, some sequels are better than the original, and you should definitely mention if what you’re watching is better in comparison. If you can, review both the sequel and the original and reference them both. Compare the pros and cons of each version and form an opinion on which does “the horror” best, and stays true to the film’s intended storyline.

While some fans watch “horror for horror’s sake,” others might enjoy a complex thriller or a serious story based on a psychological threat. Your review should explain the film’s target audience. Remember that not all fans like sex, guts, and rock-n-roll. If the movie is a blood fest, the film will probably not appeal to fans that love scary ghost stories. You can easily figure out which audience the film is for based on some of the elements we’ve discussed.

Reviewing On Location

Where you’ve seen the film is an important aspect of your movie-watching experience. If you are reviewing from the theater, set the scene in your review for your readers. What types of people are sitting in the auditorium? Where there any kids? Did they cry? Did anyone run out screaming or walk out in disgust? One of the ways you can make your review more personal is to write about why you went to see the film. If you went to see the film because you were on a date or simply because you love every one of George Romero’s movies, include that nugget of information as your personal touch.

These days, most films have a three-to-four month turnaround from the theater to DVD. Even then, we’re seeing the release of a regular DVD, the special edition DVD, and the Director’s Cut DVD. If you’re reviewing one of these, be very specific which release you are writing about. Be sure to watch the behind-the-scenes features and extras if there are any. Add your thoughts if you find that the alternate scenes are better (or worse) than what’s in the film. Include your comments about the “making of” highlights or the crafty anecdotes from the director and/or cast in the “commentary” option. Be mindful of packaging, graphics, and price. Is the DVD in a cool set or plain box? Are the menus easy to navigate on your TV or PC? Is the film worth your time and money?

Whenever you’re writing a review, remember that your personal opinion isn’t the only thing we want to read about. Take inspiration from the topics we’ve covered and write down all your thoughts and perceptions on the pros and cons of a film. It’s tough to take a pen or paper to a theater, so practice being an objective observer and make mental notes when you’re in your plush chair. Learning to write good reviews is a process, and many of the “great” reviewers out there got better simply by writing more of them. After you’ve outlined your thoughts, put them in the order you want your reader to read. Will you go through the film point by point? Put all the bad first? Alternate between pros and cons? Stick to your outline and make sure you support what you say with examples. This review is your opportunity to let your voice be heard. Regardless of what your reviewing style is, the key to writing excellent reviews is to sound like you know what you’re talking about by balancing your opinion with your observations in the review. Sometimes, it does help to have someone else read your writing to ensure your words flow well, and you’ve covered the basics of grammar and spelling. If you can’t find someone to read it, see if the media you’re writing for will help you edit it or simply, read it out loud.

Feel like you’re ready to tackle your horror movie review? Grab your notepad and start jotting down notes. We can’t wait to read all about it!

Related posts:

• On Reviewing Fiction
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• Scriptwriting

How to Write Horror — Horror Writing Tips for Fiction & Film

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S o, you want to learn how to write a good horror story? Whether you want to know how to write a horror movie or how to write a horror book, the four steps outlined in this guide will get you started on the appropriate course of action and help you to align your creative goals. Writing horror isn’t all that different from writing for other genres, but it does require the right mindset and a creepy destination to work towards. Before we jump into the first of our four steps, let’s begin with a primer.

How to write horror

Before you get started.

The steps outlined in this ‘how to write horror’ guide assume that you already have a grasp over the fundamentals of writing. If you do not yet understand the basic mechanics of prose, screenwriting , or storytelling, then you might not get everything you need out of this guide. Luckily, we have a litany of informative resources that can bring you up to speed on everything you need to know.

If you intend to tell the  horror story  you have in mind as a screenplay, then the best way to fast track your screenwriting education might be to read through some of the  best screenwriting books  or to enroll in one of the  best online screenwriting courses .

Our guide to writing great scenes  is another good place to start, and our  glossary of screenwriting vocabulary  is a great resource if you encounter any unfamiliar terminology. When you’re ready to start writing, you can get going for free in  StudioBinder’s screenwriting software .

Now, we’re ready to jump into step one of our how to write horror guide. But, be warned, if you don’t already have a basic story concept in mind, you should consider that Step Zero.

There’s no concrete way to generate story ideas, but you can always look to creative writing prompts  and  indie films to kickstart inspiration .

HOW TO WRITE A HORROR MOVIE

Step 1: research and study.

Writing horror often begins by consuming great horror . We look to the stories of the past when crafting the stories of the present. Someone who has never read a horror novel or seen a horror film is going to have a much harder time writing horror than someone who is a voracious consumer of horror stories. By watching and reading, you can pick up plenty of tips for writing scary stories.

Before writing your opening line, be sure to do your research. It can be worthwhile to explore all manner of horror media. But for the purposes of this step, it’s best to focus in on the type of material you wish to create.

If you want to learn how to write a horror novel, then read as many horror novels as you can get your hands on. Our list of the  greatest horror films  ever made is a good place to conduct your research if you plan to write a horror screenplay. You can also check out our rundown of  underrated horror films for even more research.

Here are tips on how to write horror from the master himself, Stephen King. And, while you're at it, might as well catch up on the best Stephen King movies and TV based on his work!

How to write good horror  •  Stephen King offers horror writing tips

It’s important to go beyond simply reading and watching horror and to begin to analyze the material. Drill down into why certain decisions were made by the writer and try to figure out why certain elements work or don’t work. It can often be worthwhile to explore material you consider bad as well as what you consider good, so you can learn what not to do.

Check out our analysis of Midsommar   below for an example of how you can break down and explore the horror films that inspire you. You can also download the Midsommar script as a PDF to analyze the writing directly. You should check out our Best Horror Scripts post for more iconic script PDFs.

How to Write Horror  •   Read Full Midsommar Script

When consuming material to learn how to write a horror story, pay particular attention to the pacing and structure of the stories you’re inspired by. For example, if the style you find yourself most drawn to is slow-burn horror, then you might want to aim for a much slower pace than average with your story as well, but the build-up will become even more important.

Horror story writing

Step 2: decide your type of horror.

So, you’ve decided you’re writing horror, congratulations, you’ve settled on a genre. Now, it’s time to pick your sub-genre (s) and to decide on the specific avenue of horror to explore. There are many horror sub-genres to choose from. Just take a look at our ultimate guide to movie genres for quick rundown. And, check out the video below to see horror sub-genres ranked.

Ranking subgenres for inspiration  •  Horror story writing

Keep in mind that genres and subgenres can be mixed and matched in a multitude of combinations. For example, The Witch blends together the horror and historical fiction genres. From Dusk Till Dawn fuses action, crime-thriller, and vampire elements. And Shaun of the Dead fuses the horror and comedy genres by way of the zombie subgenre.

Our video essay below offers insights into Shaun of the Dead director Edgar Wright’s creative process. Check out our ranking of Edgar Wright’s entire filmography if you want even more.

How Edgar Wright writes and directs his movies  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Step Two is also the time to decide on the specific avenue you will exploit when writing horror. By “avenue of horror,” we mean the primary source(s) of tension and scares. Witches? Zombies? Cosmic horror? Body Horror ? Social Horror? These are all different avenues that your horror story can take on, and just like with genres and sub-genres, mixing and matching is encouraged.

A horror story that exploits kills and gore as its avenue of horror will be written in a much different manner than one that focuses on a sense of creeping dread and leaves more to the viewer or reader’s imagination.

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Step 3: Mine your fears and phobias 

You have decided on your genre and your avenue of horror, now it’s time to get more specific and drill deeper. For Step Three, go beyond asking what makes a story scary and instead figure out what makes your story frightening.

Depending on what you chose in Step Two, this might already be baked into your sub-genre and avenue of horror. For example, the home invasion sub-genre by nature mines a very real phobia that many people share.

The best home invasion films

However, if you chose to go with the zombie subgenre for example, you may need to work a little harder to discover what it is about your story that will scare audiences. Zombies on their own certainly hold the potential to be frightening, but audience overexposure to them throughout the years has gone a long way to lessen the scary impact they once had.

For examples of how to do it right, check out our rundown of the best zombie films ever made . And, for a different yet equally effective take on the sub-genre, check out our list of the  best zombie comedies .

How to write a horror story  •  Exploit common phobias

The above video breaks down the statistics surrounding a number of phobias. One common piece of writerly wisdom is “write what you know.” When writing in the horror genre, we can tweak that advice to, “write what scares you.” Mine your own fears and phobias when crafting your horror story; there are sure to be others out there who get creeped out by the same things.

This is also the step where you should try to discover your X-factor. What is it that sets your story apart from similar horror stories? If the answer is “nothing really,” then it might be time to take your concept back to the drawing board.

How to write a horror story

Step 4: keep your audience in mind.

From this point on, you are ready to start writing your horror story. Much of the writing process will be carried out in the same way as you would write a story in any other genre. But there are a few extra considerations. Put all that research you did in step one to work and ensure that your prose or screenwriting is well balanced and doles out the scares at a good pace.

You will want to find a good middle ground between sacrificing story and character development and going too long without something to keep your audience creeped out.

Narrative pacing is important in every genre, but horror writers also need to worry about pacing their scares, similar to how someone writing an action film needs to deliberately pace out their big action sequences.

How to write a horror story  •  Keep pacing in mind

Decide on who your target audience is from the jump and keep them in mind while you write. There can be a significant difference between horror aimed at teens vs. horror aimed at a mature audience. In film, this can mean the difference between shooting for a PG-13 rating instead of an R rating.

In fiction, this decision might manifest as a plan to market directly toward the young-adult crowd. Horror aimed at children, like Frankenweenie or The Nightmare Before Christmas , is drastically different from other types of horror aimed at older audiences.

Use your target audience as a guiding star that informs all of your narrative decisions as you write. Now, it’s time to put everything you just learned about how to write good horror stories to use.

The Greatest Horror Movies Ever Made 

If you are stuck on step one and looking to find some inspiration, our list of the greatest horror films ever made is a great place to look. You are sure to find something to get your creative juices flowing within this lengthy list. Writing great horror starts with consuming great horror, coming up next.

Up Next: Best Horror Movies of All Time →

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How to Write a Movie Review

Last Updated: May 13, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Marissa Levis . Marissa Levis is an English Teacher in the Morris County Vocational School District. She previously worked as an English director at a tutoring center that caters to students in elementary and middle school. She is an expert in creating a curriculum that helps students advance their skills in secondary-level English, focusing on MLA formatting, reading comprehension, writing skills, editing and proofreading, literary analysis, standardized test preparation, and journalism topics. Marissa received her Master of Arts in Teaching from Fairleigh Dickinson University. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 5,608,197 times.

Whether a movie is a rotten tomato or a brilliant work of art, if people are watching it, it's worth critiquing. A decent movie review should entertain, persuade and inform, providing an original opinion without giving away too much of the plot. A great movie review can be a work of art in its own right. Read on to learn how to analyze a movie like a professional film critic, come up with an interesting thesis, and write a review as entertaining as your source material.

Sample Movie Reviews

Writing an Intro for a Movie Review

• Comparison to Relevant Event or Movie: "Every day, our leaders, politicians, and pundits call for "revenge"– against terrorist groups, against international rivals, against other political parties. But few of them understand the cold, destructive, and ultimately hollow thrill of revenge as well as the characters of Blue Ruin. "
• Review in a nutshell: "Despite a compelling lead performance by Tom Hanks and a great soundtrack, Forrest Gump never gets out of the shadow of its weak plot and questionable premise."
• Context or Background Information: " Boyhood might be the first movie made where knowing how it was produced–slowly, over 12 years, with the same actors–is just as crucial as the movie itself."

• Using stars, a score out of 10 or 100, or the simple thumbs-up and thumbs-down is a quick way to give your thoughts. You then write about why you chose that rating.
• Great Movie: ABC is the rare movie that succeeds on almost every level, where each character, scene, costume, and joke firing on all cylinders to make a film worth repeated viewings."
• Bad Movie: "It doesn't matter how much you enjoy kung-fu and karate films: with 47 Ronin, you're better off saving your money, your popcorn, and time."
• Okay Movie: "I loved the wildly uneven Interstellar far more than I should have, but that doesn't mean it is perfect. Ultimately, the utter awe and spectacle of space swept me through the admittedly heavy-handed plotting and dialogue."

• Great: "Michael B. Jordan and Octavia Spencer's chemistry would carry Fruitvale Station even if the script wasn't as good. The mid-movie prison scene in particular, where the camera never leaves their faces, shows how much they can convey with nothing but their eyelids, the flashing tension of neck muscles, and a barely cracking voice."
• Bad: " Jurassic World's biggest flaw, a complete lack of relatable female characters, is only further underscored by a laughably unrealistic shot of our heroine running away from a dinosaur – in heels."
• Okay: "At the end of the day, Snowpiercer can't decide what kind of movie it wants to be. The attention to detail in fight scenes, where every weapon, lightbulb, and slick patch of ground is accounted for, doesn't translate to an ending that seems powerful but ultimately says little of substance."

• Does the film reflect on a current event or contemporary issue? It could be the director's way of engaging in a bigger conversation. Look for ways to relate the content of the film to the "real" world.
• Does the film seem to have a message, or does it attempt to elicit a specific response or emotion from the audience? You could discuss whether or not it achieves its own goals.
• Does the film connect with you on a personal level? You could write a review stemming from your own feelings and weave in some personal stories to make it interesting for your readers.

Composing Your Review

• When you name characters in your plot summary, list the actors' names directly afterward in parenthesis.
• Find a place to mention the director's name and the full movie title.
• If you feel you must discuss information that might "spoil" things for readers, warn them first.

• Cinematography: " Her is a world drenched in color, using bright, soft reds and oranges alongside calming whites and grays that both build, and slowly strip away, the feelings of love between the protagonists. Every frame feels like a painting worth sitting in."
• Tone: "Despite the insane loneliness and high stakes of being stuck alone on Mars, The Martian's witty script keeps humor and excitement alive in every scene. Space may be dangerous and scary, but the joy of scientific discovery is intoxicating."
• Music and Sound: " No Country For Old Men's bold decision to skip music entirely pays off in spades. The eerie silence of the desert, punctuated by the brief spells of violent, up-close-and-personal sound effects of hunter and hunted, keeps you constantly on the edge of your seat."
• Acting: "While he's fantastic whenever he's on the move, using his cool stoicism to counteract the rampaging bus, Keanu Reeves can't quite match his costar in the quiet moments of Speed, which falter under his expressionless gaze."

• Keep your writing clear and easy to understand. Don't use too much technical filmmaking jargon, and make your language crisp and accessible.
• Present both the facts and your opinion. For example, you might state something such as, "The Baroque background music was a jarring contrast to the 20th century setting." This is a lot more informative then simply saying, "The music was a strange choice for the movie."

• Great: "In the end, even the characters of Blue Ruin know how pointless their feud is. But revenge, much like every taut minute of this thriller, is far too addictive to give up until the bitter end.""
• Bad: "Much like the oft-mentioned "box of chocolates", Forest Gump has a couple of good little morsels. But most of the scenes, too sweet by half, should have been in the trash long before this movie was put out."
• Okay: "Without the novel, even revolutionary concept, Boyhood may not be a great movie. It might not even be "good.” But the power the film finds in the beauty of passing time and little, inconsequential moments – moments that could only be captured over 12 years of shooting – make Linklater's latest an essential film for anyone interested in the art of film."

Polishing Your Piece

• Ask yourself whether your review stayed true to your thesis. Did your conclusion tie back in with the initial ideas you proposed?
• Decide whether your review contains enough details about the movie. You may need to go back and add more description here and there to give readers a better sense of what the movie's about.
• Decide whether your review is interesting enough as a stand-alone piece of writing. Did you contribute something original to this discussion? What will readers gain from reading your review that they couldn't from simply watching the movie?

Studying Your Source Material

• The title of the film, and the year it came out.
• The director's name.
• The names of the lead actors.

• Make a note every time something sticks out to you, whether it's good or bad. This could be costuming, makeup, set design, music, etc. Think about how this detail relates to the rest of the movie and what it means in the context of your review.
• Take note of patterns you begin to notice as the movie unfolds.
• Use the pause button frequently so you make sure not to miss anything, and rewind as necessary.

• Direction: Consider the director and how he or she choose to portray/explain the events in the story. If the movie was slow, or didn't include things you thought were necessary, you can attribute this to the director. If you've seen other movies directed by the same person, compare them and determine which you like the most.
• Cinematography: What techniques were used to film the movie? What setting and background elements helped to create a certain tone?
• Writing: Evaluate the script, including dialogue and characterization. Did you feel like the plot was inventive and unpredictable or boring and weak? Did the characters' words seem credible to you?
• Editing: Was the movie choppy or did it flow smoothly from scene to scene? Did they incorporate a montage to help build the story? And was this obstructive to the narrative or did it help it? Did they use long cuts to help accentuate an actor's acting ability or many reaction shots to show a group's reaction to an event or dialogue? If visual effects were used were the plates well-chosen and were the composited effects part of a seamless experience? (Whether the effects looked realistic or not is not the jurisdiction of an editor, however, they do choose the footage to be sent off to the compositors, so this could still affect the film.)
• Costume design: Did the clothing choices fit the style of the movie? Did they contribute to the overall tone, rather than digressing from it?
• Set design: Consider how the setting of the film influenced its other elements. Did it add or subtract from the experience for you? If the movie was filmed in a real place, was this location well-chosen?
• Score or soundtrack: Did it work with the scenes? Was it over/under-used? Was it suspenseful? Amusing? Irritating? A soundtrack can make or break a movie, especially if the songs have a particular message or meaning to them.

Expert Q&A

• If you don't like the movie, don't be abusive and mean. If possible, avoid watching the movies that you would surely hate. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Understand that just because the movie isn't to your taste, that doesn't mean you should give it a bad review. A good reviewer helps people find movie's they will like. Since you don't have the same taste in movies as everyone else, you need to be able to tell people if they will enjoy the movie, even if you didn't. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Structure is very important; try categorizing the different parts of the film and commenting on each of those individually. Deciding how good each thing is will help you come to a more accurate conclusion. For example, things like acting, special effects, cinematography, think about how good each of those are. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about writing, check out our in-depth interview with Marissa Levis .

• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_film/terminology_and_starting_prompts.html
• ↑ https://www.spiritofbaraka.com/how-write-a-movie-review
• ↑ https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/9-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/
• ↑ https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/writing-help/top-tips-for-writing-a-review
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/summary-using-it-wisely/
• ↑ https://twp.duke.edu/sites/twp.duke.edu/files/file-attachments/film-review-1.original.pdf
• ↑ https://www.dailywritingtips.com/7-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_film/film_writing_sample_analysis.html
• ↑ https://learning.hccs.edu/faculty/onnyx.bei/dual-credit/movie-review-writing-guide
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-a-movie-review/
• ↑ https://gustavus.edu/writingcenter/handoutdocs/editing_proofreading.php
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ https://edusson.com/blog/how-to-write-movie-review

About This Article

To write a movie review, start with a compelling fact or opinion to hook your readers, like "Despite a great performance by Tom Hanks, Forrest Gump never overcomes its weak plot." Then, elaborate on your opinion of the movie right off the bat so readers know where you stand. Once your opinion is clear, provide examples from the movie that prove your point, like specific scenes, dialogue, songs, or camera shots. To learn how to study a film closely before you write a review, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Great Horror Movie

There's only one genre out there that everyone is buying. so in honor of halloween, i want to walk you through how to write a horror movie. get your knives ready. .

The horror genre is tried and true. It's the one genre every studio and streamer is buying. Why? 

Because it's the one that usually delivers the most profitable movies. Horror films come with a huge audience, and the nature of the stories usually keep them pretty cheap. 

But are there tricks to writing a horror screenplay that makes the process different?

I don't know about any tricks.... but I can assure you this post is a real treat! 

Okay, if that didn't chase you away or horrify you enough to stop reading, let's forge ahead into the unknown...

What's the worst that could happen? 

Table of Contents

Horror movie definition .

What is a horror movie?  

A horror movie is a film whose plot is  designed to frighten the viewer. The story must cause some sort of existential dread and invoke our very worst fears. Horror films are roller coasters for viewers often climaxing in a shocking finale. They can be cathartic or just plain fun. 

What kinds of horror movies are out there? 

There are so many different kinds of horror movies in the world. This genre contains a bunch of subgenres. Before you start writing, you should pick one, or mash a few up.

I want to address something that comes up in the comments a lot. I often get people replying "This is fine, but what actually sold with this stuff?"

I know we aren't supposed to read the comments, but the comments section is my horror movie. 

I usually don't address this stuff but I want to this time. 

Mostly because as a professional writer, horror is where I've found most of my recent work. 

Last year I wrote on a horror anthology series that was on Netflix called Don't Watch This . My episode was called Keep Out.  I've done extensive work for CryptTV .  Keep your eyes out for it. 

My point is: I have worked in this space and I want to help. 

I'm not calling myself "the authority" but I'm only going to give you the things I've used for my screenplay work. 

So let's look at some of the horror sub-genres and see what each entails. 

Horror movie sub-genres 

Slasher movies usually have killers who use knives or hooks or machetes to hack up their victims. They can be like Texas Chainsaw Massacre or Scream in tone. There can be one or multiple killers. They have a lot in common with the mystery genre and thrillers. 

From Godzilla to The   Fly , monster movies come in all shapes and sizes. Usually, these monsters terrorize a small community, like in Jaws , but they can also be a global threat, like in Cloverfield . We don't always need a direct scientific explanation for why or how the monster exists, but that might clue everyone in on how you can defeat them. 

Supernatural  

Ghosts, demons, and Satan all exist within these worlds. Your demons can be like Freddy Kreuger or they can be like the possessor in The Exorcist . They can be spirits like in The Others or a riff like in Ghost . Or just straight-up horrific like in Poltergeist . 

Inanimate Objects 

A few years ago it felt like every movie had a scary doll in it. Now, with the Chucky reboot and Anabelle , these dolls don't seem like they're going away. But what about something like The Fog or Christine ? They also fall into these types. 

Found Footage 

I know this is technically a WAY to make a movie, but I wanted to address it last. While these movies are not as popular as they once were, the staples are still the most famous. The Blair Witch, The Visit, and Paranormal Activity  changed the way we viewed cinema. You have to write for found footage for it to be found footage. 

How to Write a Horror Movie (Free Outline)

Before you sit down to write or outline, I wanted to go over some of the tropes within these kinds of films. These tropes can be things you subvert or lean into depending on the situation. You can learn about them here or see them in action by d ownloading 80 Horror Screenplays for inspiration ! 

So let's ask the question...

What are some horror screenplay tropes? 

Guys, I love a great horror screenplay. They make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and make you shake with excitement. 

Common tropes of horror screenplays include:

• Action : People often creep around with little dialogue. 
• Suspense: Pacing in horror is a must. Think Hitchcock ! 
• Jumpscares : Sudden noises or reveals should POP off the page. 
• Gore : Gruesome death or torture scenes are commonplace in these movies. 
• A memorable villain: Create someone who will haunt dreams for years to come. 

Okay, you picked your horror subgenre and found our logline and treatment pages so you did your prep work. Now it's time to jump into the outline and then in your screenwriting software to type some pages. 

So what does a horror screenplay outline look like? 

The horror screenplay outline:, 1. unraveling the terror  - do you have an opening scare that defines the movie.

Do you like  Scream ? The opening scene of the  screenplay  sets the tone for the entire story. 

2. The Entry Point  - Who will be involved in these terrifying escapades and what are they dealing with? 

In a movie like  Dawn of the Dead , it's the series of scenes where we meet who will inhabit the mall. 

3. Before It Goes to Shit  - What’s a normal day look like in this world?

Think about the way the family gets by in  Poltergiest  before the ghosts show up. 

4. The Horror Sets In  - What horrific thing sets our characters off on their journey?

Nothing is worse than realizing your daughter is possessed as the characters do in  The Exorcist .   

5. The Uneasy Path - Everyone is together, what keeps them moving this way?

In something like  Godzilla , it's the reason why they deal with the monster at hand? What do they have to gain? 

6. Walking Over Broken Glass - How do our heroes deal with the problems as they go?

In the  Saw  franchise, this is how people try to get out of the sick traps and hunt Jigsaw. 

7. Through The Dark Cave  - Do you have a B story? Set that story off on its own now too.

B-stories, like the marital tension in  Rosemary's Baby , are great scenes to juxtapose against the horror at hand. 

8. Reassess the Terror  - You’re in the middle. Is there another way to get out alive?

In  Shaun of the Dead  its when they decide to go to the Winchester. 

9. People are Going to Die  - Things begin to fall apart, let the body count rise and show how they deal with it. 

In  The Descent , this is when the people in the group begin to be picked off one by one. 

10. The Fall  - The worst thing happens, something so bad you don’t think you can get up.

I n a horror movie like  The Mist , it's when they are forced outside and surrounded by the actual mist. 

11. The Hidden Clue  - What do your characters discover that they never saw before?

Is there a way out? Something they never realized, like in the  Sixth Sense  when David realizes he's a ghost. 

12. Race To the Final (Girl)  - They’re up and running no matter what. They can make it! 

This is the series of scenes that carries us toward your thrilling finale. In  Alien , it's when Ripley is confronted and has to think fast. 

13. The Moment of Relief  - Did they make it out alive? Has life returned to normal?

What does their day feel like with the problem corrected? Think about when  Jaws  finally blows up?

14. Where We Go From Here? - Show us the world in a new light, hint what’s next. Maybe the killer or monster returns for one final scare!

In every horror movie, it feels like there's one last scare. Like in  I Still Know What you did Last Summer  when it turns out the hook-handed man is under the bed! 

Horror Movies and Comedy Movies 

One last thing I wanted to address is the addition of humor to your screenplay. 

So many horror movies use comedy to help bring levity to dark things. Sure, it doesn't happen all the time, but comedy helps ease people into scenes., If you're laughing, you might be more susceptible to a jump scare or a misdirect. 

You can be as funny as Shaun of the Dead , or use the deadpan humor of The Dead Don't Die. 

Even titles as unsettling as Midsommar contain humor that helps the audience engage. 

So consider adding humor to your pages to keep them turning. 

Sam Raimi, one of the best to do it, uses comedy in all his horror films. 

What's next? Learn about Movie and TV genres ! 

Film and TV genres affect who watches your work, how it's classified, and even how it's reviewed. So how do you decide what you're writing? And which genres to mash-up? The secret is in the tropes. 

How to use video templates from Adobe Stock

Whether you’re new to video editing or have years of experience creating videos for film, TV, social media, and more, video editing templates are powerful tools that can help you quickly create stylish videos that look the way you want.

This post was written by Adobe Stock and originally appeared on the Adobe blog on March 25th, 2024.

What is a template in video editing?

But what is a template in video editing, and how can you use the options in the Adobe Stock collection to optimize your production workflows and make your content stand out? Read on to learn more about the benefits of using video templates — including new Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects templates as well as Motion Graphics templates (a.k.a. MOGRT files).

How to create using video editing templates

Think of video templates as shortcuts in your creative process. Your videos almost always need to include elements like intros and outros, transitions, and visual effects. But rather than painstakingly creating these elements from scratch each time you work on a new project, you can browse Adobe Stock to find pre-built options that will save you time.

When you find a MOGRT template you like, all you have to do is download it and drop it onto your video editing timeline to incorporate it into your project. With Premiere Pro and After Effects templates, you can simply download the project files and open them in their respective apps to begin working with them.

Use Adobe Stock templates as a starting point

As a creator with a unique vision for each video you make, you might balk at the idea of incorporating pre-built content into your productions. However, MOGRT files offer the ability to customize a predetermined set of elements for a faster workflow, and Adobe Stock, Premiere Pro and After Effects video editing templates are fully customizable for more control of your final project.

You’re free to adjust all the details — colors, lighting, fonts, textures, effects, pacing, and more — to suit the look and feel of your projects. And even when you customize video editing templates, you’ll still save time compared to how long it would take to create the same elements from scratch.

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ Motion Forward .

Add professional polish with Premiere Pro video editing templates

Premiere Pro is the Adobe Creative Cloud app that delivers industry-standard video editing tools. It has everything you need to edit and trim footage, correct color, adjust audio, and mix music. It also lets you add titles, transitions, and effects to enhance and propel your stories.

Premiere Pro templates in the Adobe Stock collection offer a wide range of essential building blocks for your videos. For example, you’ll find titles to introduce your videos as well as lower thirds to let you easily display contextual information onscreen.

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ vladoskin .

You’ll discover innovative transitions to help you smoothly move from one scene to another in your videos.

And you’ll also find specialty video editing templates like logo reveals for corporate or brand videos and slideshows that help you show more than one scene or person onscreen.

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ Vitalii .

Create some sizzle with eye-catching After Effects video editing templates

After Effects is the industry-standard app for creating motion graphics and visual effects. You can use it to animate text and characters, make objects disappear, control the weather onscreen, and much more.

As with Premiere Pro video templates, Adobe Stock After Effects templates include essential video elements like titles and transitions . They also include colorful and hypnotic backgrounds for your text, graphics, and animations.

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ grape.design .

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ CandyMustache .

Plus, you’ll find engaging motion effects and motion overlays that use text, graphics, and photographic imagery to draw viewers into your stories.

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ Enchanted Studios .

Grab attention with Motion Graphics templates

Designed for Premiere Pro, Adobe Stock Motion Graphics templates enable you to quickly add moving text and graphics to your videos.

They span titles, backgrounds, slideshows, overlays, and more, and they offer a range of looks, from sweeping and cinematic to glitchy and retro. And remember — you can edit them in Premiere Pro to perfectly fit your stories, styles, and moods.

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ Wavebreak Media .

Video Credit: Adobe Stock/ MOGRT.es .

Get creating with Adobe Stock multi-asset subscriptions

Sarting at just US$29.99/ month, our multi-asset subscriptions are tailored to meet various creative needs, giving you access to millions of images, videos (now including 4K), music tracks, video and design templates, vectors, and more. All these assets are available in one place and easily accessible from within Adobe Creative Cloud apps, all in one place.

Check out our Adobe Stock subscriptions and start creating today.

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How to Write a Movie Review: 10 Essential Tips

As long as there have been films, there have been film critics. Starting with the early days of cinema, where reviews appeared in newspapers and magazines as brief, descriptive pieces, as filmmaking evolved as an art form, so did the role of the critic. James Agee, André Bazin, and Pauline Kael shaped the discourse around cinema, and today, famous film critics like the iconic Roger Ebert , The New York Times’s A.O. Scott , and The New York Times’s Manohla Dargis continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

With the rise of the internet, film criticism now encompasses a wide range of voices and perspectives from around the globe. Sites like Letterboxd make it possible for anyone to write short-form reviews on film. Even stars like The Bear’s Ayo Edebiri have accounts and share opinions on the latest box-office hits.

How to Write a Movie Review

Today, contemporary YouTube and TikTok critics such as Red Letter Media , deepfocuslens , and DoMo Draper don’t just write film reviews, they shoot videos and skits. Through their creative formats, they offer refreshing and unique perspectives while building communities of diehard film and television enthusiasts. Whether you choose to write reviews for your own blog, other websites, or social media channels, by learning how to write a movie review, any aspiring filmmaker can start to watch films intentionally. 

@domodraperr Replying to @xsindeviltriggerx I’ll get right on that, Sir!🫡 #comments #movies #film #satire #fyp #mulan #disney ♬ I’ll Make a Man Out of You (feat. Black Gryph0n) – Cover – Samuel Kim

TikTok film critic “DoMo Draper” provides commentary on new and old films, often calling out racism, social injustice, misogyny, and prejudice.

While there’s no perfect approach to writing a review, there are best practices that every aspiring reviewer should consider.

Here are ten tips on writing a compelling piece.

1. Watch the film at least once.

For new reviewers, it’s impossible to capture everything after one viewing. Watching the film first, then watching to take notes, is an easy way to improve the quality of your final review. This will also make it easy to recall in-the-moment thoughts and reactions.

Take a review by Christian Blauvelt of Charlie Chaplin’s silent film The Circus , for example. Since the film does not have sound, properly critiquing the film requires close attention. Viewers have to pay attention to the various nuances in Chaplin’s performance, follow the story, and take in the cinematography. Regarding The Circus , Blauvelt writes, “The film lacks a conventional plot, but is rather a pearl necklace of strung-together episodes. ” The statement isn’t a criticism, but a keen observation likely gleaned from more than one viewing. 

So while every film reviewer has their own approach, many choose to watch a film more than once to deliver the best possible review. Image The Criterion Collection.

2. Express your opinions and support your criticism.

Professional reviewers do not shy away from sharing whether they thought a movie was good, bad, or indifferent. In a review for the film Mother!, reviewer Candice Frederick describes the film as “uncomfortable,” and “controversial,” helping viewers understand the tone of the movie. While Frederick seemed to enjoy the film, her honesty about how it would make audiences feel was vital in writing the review.

Be sure to back up these thoughts with specifics–a disappointing performance, beautiful cinematography, difficult material that leaves you thinking, and so on. Professional reviewers should express why and how they came to their criticism.

3. Consider your audience.

Are you writing for a fan site or a news outlet? Who will read your pieces, and what are their interests? Knowing who your readers are and where the review will be published can help you decide what elements of the movie to highlight. For example, take these two very different reviews for the film ‘Synecdoche, New York’.  

The first review was written by Alonso Duralde for The Today Show , and clocks in at around 500 words. The film focuses on the bullet points: characters, plot, and a concise review. The second review is over 3,000 words and published on the Critical Critics blog . This review goes into massive depth (and yes, includes spoilers) about the film, providing an incredible amount of analysis. The first review is tailored for the casual filmgoer, while the second is for cinephiles. Each review serves a different purpose.

It’s also a good idea to adjust your writing style to fit the target audience. For example, Alonso Duralde is a talented film reviewer and likely wrote the review to fit the tone of The Today Show site. Image via Director’s Library.

4. Talk about the acting.

When reviewing a film, it’s important to take space to discuss the performances. Does the film feature a seasoned actor in a new kind of role or a brilliant performance from a rising star? How was the acting? In a review by Brett Milam for the award-winning film Whiplash , he goes into rich detail about performances by both breakthrough actor Miles Teller and seasoned professional JK Simmons.

Regarding Teller, Milam writes, “This is a performance. This is art,” and about Simmons, “I found him fascinating to just look at.” Those are just small examples of the analysis he provides regarding their acting. As the film mostly focuses on the relationship between their two characters, Miles as the protagonist and JK as the antagonist, the review of the performances lends well to the plot of the film: student and teacher going head to head in an intense and determined showdown. 

Feedback about how well the actors handled the script, the dynamics in an ensemble, and so much more can help describe how the actors did in any given film.

5. Call out directors, cinematographers, and special effects.

Reviews that include highlights or missteps of directors, cinematographers, and costume designers can help provide support to your critiques. By providing specific examples of what worked, what surprised you, and what fell short of expectations, reviewers can write a well-thought-out review that goes beyond whether or not you liked it.

In a review for A Wrinkle in Time , Monique Jones artfully crafts a piece that diplomatically cites the missteps of the film. From analyzing the quality of the CGI to the camera techniques to inconsistencies in the rules of the fantasy universe, Jones fairly offers a critique that guides the filmmakers and crew on future endeavors. To write this type of review, it helps to have some knowledge of the filmmaking process so you can properly assess the screenwriting, cinematography, special effects, acting, and more. Image via Disney.

6. No spoilers!

The point of writing a movie review is to get people interested in seeing a movie. That’s why it’s absolutely best practice to not reveal spoilers in a film review. Film reviewer Robert Daniels approaches this creatively. In his review of Annihilation , he provides commentary on what would be considered spoilers. However, he places that part of the review at the bottom of the article under a bold header/image that warns the reader he’s about to spoil the film. For reviewers who want to dissect the entire film, this is a good way to both tease the film for anyone who hasn’t seen it and cater to people who want to know what the ending is.

Remember: the goal of any film review is to discuss the plot without revealing any twists or the ending of the film. 

7. Study the professionals.

As with all writing endeavors, the more you read, the better. However, with the modern landscape of film reviewing, which can go beyond writing and extend to content creation for social media platforms, there are a ton of reviewers to take notes from. First, determine what kind of reviewer you want to be, and what kind of medium you plan to deliver your reviews on. If you plan to post to Medium, for example, studying the reviewers already established on the site can be a great starting point.

Then, read film reviews for some of your favorite films. Determine which style of review you like and don’t like. Question why, and use your critical eye to consider why one reviewer has a hundred thousand followers and another only has two. If you’re looking to be featured on a website or a magazine, read the publications where you’d like your writing to appear as a template for your reviews, and don’t forget to read the submission guidelines. A few examples of film review professionals include Rotten Tomatoes , Roger Ebert , and Film Comment. 

8. Reread, rewrite, and edit.

While writing film critique is based on opinion, and follows the style of the reviewer, it’s still important to edit work. Writers should check for spelling, grammar, and readability. No matter how good a writer’s opinions are, they will not be taken seriously if the director’s name isn’t spelled correctly. Tools such as Grammarly and Hemingway Editor can be great for correcting and finding areas that need improvement. 

9. Find your voice.

The best reviewers have a distinct personality that comes across in their writing. Los Angeles Times film reviewer Carlos Aguilar wrote an impassioned piece about the film Beatriz at Dinner , going into a lot of detail about his experiences working in the film industry and his Mexican heritage. By sharing anecdotes about casual racism he’s experienced and connecting it to the film’s protagonist, and what she goes through, the review feels personal and relatable.

“If at a film festival – to which I’ve gotten access to because I’m a published writer – in a progressive city like Los Angeles, I must keep my guard up when people question my right to be there, then how are the voiceless supposed to feel safe, respected, or hopeful?” Aguilar writes. 

For new reviewers, developing this type of unique voice does not happen overnight, so take every opportunity to write as an opportunity to develop your style. Image via BBC.

10. Know your taste.

As a film reviewer, it can be helpful to identify your taste in film. By knowing specific preferences, strengths, and biases, reviewers can offer nuanced critiques that resonate with audiences and provide valuable guidance on which films they might enjoy. Additionally, it helps to maintain credibility and integrity as a reviewer by ensuring that assessments are authentic and reflective of personal cinematic sensibilities.

Try to explore various genres, directors, and themes to understand what resonates emotionally, intellectually, and aesthetically. Pay attention to the types of stories that engage you, which can help define your preferences.

Learn More About Filmmaking at NYFA

Film students with writing experience actually make great reviewers, as many of them are required to study a range of topics relating to film that can include cinematography, screenwriting, producing, and much more. Ready to build even more skills in filmmaking? Request more information about New York Film Academy’s filmmaking programs and workshops today!

The Horror Spec: How to Write a Horror Movie

October 3, 2018.

Horror movies are big business in Hollywood — with films like Get Out and A Quiet Place not only topping the box office but garnering critical acclaim, the industry is looking for the next hot horror spec. If you’re thinking about delving into the dark corners of the genre, here are 10 tips to help make your script successful and, above all else, scary (be warned, there are spoilers below).

How to Pick a Subgenre of Horror Movies

Before you start, it’s important to know exactly what kind of movie you are writing. Is it a monster movie like A Quiet Place ? A slasher film like Friday the 13th ? A supernatural thriller like Mama ? A horror-comedy like Shaun of the Dead ? Here’s a handy list to help you decide on the subgenre that fits your story best.

Making a Low-Budget Horror Film

Producers and studios love horror movies because you can make them for little money — many low-budget horror movies have gone on to make millions at the box office. Paranormal Activity , for example, was made on a budget of $15,000. The film went on to gross over $100 million in the United States alone. For Get Out , the budget was $4.5 million and at the box office, it earned $250 million.

Keep your script low-budget by thinking about ways to cut costs as you write it. If your film requires say, a monster to destroy an entire city like in Godzilla , it may be difficult to get a producer interested.

Put a New Spin on an Old Concept

Horror is a genre with tropes we see again and again: The band of survivors who come together after the apocalypse, the creepy kid who may or may not be possessed or demonic, the toy that comes to life and devastates the family. It’s okay to use these tropes, but think about new ways you can tell the story. For example, The Lost Boys was a new spin on vampire mythology, with vampires who were super cool like rock stars. Warm Bodies subverted the zombie mythology by making it a romantic comedy. Use well-established tropes, but give audiences something they’ve never seen before.

Use Existing Intellectual Property

There are plenty of well-known characters and stories in the horror universe that are public domain. For example, most of horror writer H.P. Lovecraft’s stories are in the public domain, as are stories by Edgar Allan Poe. An internet search will give you a list of preexisting intellectual property you can use (just don’t forget the advice about subverting old tropes, as these stories have usually been used countless times before).

Make Your Horror Movie Relatable

Hollywood loves stories about characters with whom the audience can relate; most haunted house movies are about families trying to protect each other from evil forces (think Insidious , The Conjuring and The Amityville Horror ) and slasher films often show teenagers who are just trying to have a good time ( Halloween , for example, and the upcoming Hell Fest ).

Making your characters relatable means there will be a wide audience for your story. If you write a horror movie about a billionaire or a supermodel, it may be difficult for audiences to relate to and sympathize with the characters’ experiences.

Horror Movie Character Development

The best horror movies have characters we root for and care about. There’s nothing worse than watching a movie with one-dimensional characters that get picked off one by one and we don’t care because they exist purely for the purpose of being killed. Take the time to tell us about your characters; give us reasons to care about them. An American Werewolf in London is a great example of a film with likable characters that audiences care about, which makes the movie an emotional journey as well as a great scarefest.

Open With a Bang

Rather than going straight to character set up, use a scary set piece to suck in the audience. Halloween opens with a brutal murder, A Nightmare on Elm Street starts with Freddy Krueger sharpening his knife glove, and The Conjuring opens with the terrifying story of Annabelle, the possessed doll. Opening with a scary scene or set piece establishes the tone for the rest of your story; if the horror doesn’t come until much later, those reading your screenplay might question whether it is really a horror script.

Give People Something to Talk About

When people talk about horror movies, they usually talk about a scene that scared the hell out of them. You should aim to have at least two or three set pieces in your script that audiences will talk about long after your film is over. Try to make your set piece something nobody has ever seen before; it’s hard to talk about The Shining without immediately thinking of the woman in the bathtub or The Exorcist without remembering the foul obscenities and lewd acts of a nice young girl.

Subvert Expectations

As we’ve discussed, most tropes in horror films have been picked apart to death (so to speak), so horror movie fans love seeing something they’ve never seen before. Look at ways you can play with the expectations of the audience. In The Cabin in the Woods , we expect the heroes will want to save the world, and they subvert our expectations by allowing it to be destroyed. In The Descent , we expect our hero to forgive her friend for sleeping with her husband, but instead she leaves her to die in the cave. Subverting expectations gives your script a fresh feeling and will make it more attractive to a buyer.

The number one purpose of a horror film is to scare your audience. Different people are scared by different things, which gives the horror writer ample material to play with. Whether its clowns or spiders or the woods, the world is full of things that terrify people. You may even take something that isn’t scary and imbue it with menace, like a harmless doll that is possessed by an evil spirit or a nice dog that gets rabies and attacks its owners. As a horror writer, if you haven’t scared your audience, you haven’t done your job. So mine your own fears for what scares you — chances are it will scare someone else, too.

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Den of Geek

How To Write a Horror Movie

Seven horror screenwriters share their tips on how to write a really scary movie.

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It’s easy to write a horror movie, isn’t it? Pack up a couple of kids, send them off somewhere isolated, and have a monster chase them through the woods. Throw in some loud bangs on the soundtrack and you’re sorted. Right?

Wrong. Well, okay, not wrong if you want to write a basic, generic, forgettable kind of horror movie. But if you want to do something better than that, things get a bit more complicated. You need a proper story; characters worth investing in; a carefully constructed atmosphere of dread punctuated by the kind of scares that make your audience hide behind their hands. And that’s not easy.

To get the lowdown on what works and what doesn’t, I interviewed some working horror writers. Here are their tips:

Find the real story

First things first: you need to know what story you’re telling, and that isn’t just going to be “people get killed.”

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“When you’re writing a horror movie, you’ve got to write two movies,” says James Moran, writer of Severance , Cockneys Vs Zombies , Tower Block , and new web series Mina Murray’s Journal . “There’s the movie that’s gonna happen if the slasher doesn’t arrive, or the ghost doesn’t possess somebody, so the horror doesn’t start happening, and that should be enough to sustain a whole 90 minute movie – and then, half an hour or so in, that’s disrupted by the horror element crashing in and stuffing everything up.”

So if you did want to write a cabin-in-the-woods story, you’d need a proper reason for your characters to be going out there, and enough drama to sustain that story even before your villain rocks up. It’s a lot to think about, but Moran reckons it’s worth it. “If you do it that way, you get fully rounded characters, and a proper situation, and a proper story,” he says. “So after 10 or 15 minutes, [your audience] is probably kind of hoping nothing bad is going to happen.”

Alice Lowe, writer and director of pregnancy slasher Prevenge , agrees it’s important to get the human side of the story sorted before introducing any extra elements. “My favorite horrors always deal with really important human stories, and then the horror comes after,” she told me. “If the human story doesn’t work, then the horror doesn’t work, either. You know, films like Carrie and Rosemary’s Baby and The Shining are all about human threats, really – fearing violence from your father, or bullying at school, or overbearing mothers, or any of those things.”

Focus on your characters

Speaking of the human side of horror, the writers I talked to all agreed that writing believable characters is essential to creating a really scary movie. “My favorite heroines in horror movies are proactive,” says Kevin Lehane, screenwriter of Grabbers and Neil Gaiman’s Likely Stories . “Like in Candyman or Nightmare On Elm Street – or sometimes in sequels like Aliens or even Halloween H20 , where the heroine has been through something and she’s determined not to go through it again – that lets you put a character in a position of jeopardy because they have an internal motivator, which is ‘I need to know what’s haunting me and destroying my life, and I need to vanquish it.’”

Since horror movies often involve characters putting themselves in danger, he reckons it’s important that there’s a reason for the audience to believe they’d actually do it – that they’re not just doing it because the horror can’t happen if they don’t.

Moran, too, reckons plausible motivation is crucial. “My thing with characters is, even if you have a crazy over-the-top supernatural situation, I want everyone to behave realistically within that context,” he says. “So even though there’s not going to be a zombie outbreak, because zombies aren’t real, you have to think, if there was, how would people react?”

He also says characters should be the kind of people an audience is happy to spend time with. “It’s not that they all have to be lovely, but you have to understand why they’re doing what they’re doing,” he clarifies. “And even if they’re horrible, you have to get behind them in some way. Like, ‘I don’t like them, but I am entertained watching their story, so I don’t want them to die right now so I can see what happens.’ If everyone’s awful, you’re just like ‘I hate these people, I want them to die, when is that going to happen please?’ And then that’s not scary.”

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Get your antagonist right

Once you’ve got your characters sorted, it’s time to think about the villain. The possibilities are basically endless – vampires, werewolves, mummies, ghosts, deranged murderers, zombies, creatures from outer space! – but choosing the right villain for the story you’re trying to tell can be key. If you’re trying to write a script and something’s not working, it might be that you’ve got the wrong monster.

Nick Ostler, who co-wrote werewolf horror Howl with Mark Huckerby, says getting the antagonist right was crucial to their story. “The creature was originally a kind of Black Shuck, this legendary character from East Anglia,” he remembers. “But for various reasons, as we were writing it developed into a werewolf, and that was the breakthrough. Suddenly, we had a creature and a mythology, and we knew what the film was going to be about: it was about this ticket inspector who’s kind of a beta male who, over the course of the film, grows to become an alpha male. And it’s all about men and how they react to different situations. The monster gave us the whole structure.”

Building on existing mythology can be helpful, of course, because audiences already know what to expect. But making up new monsters can also work. “For me, the fun in monster movies is discovering a new species and getting to see something you’ve not seen before,” says Lehane. “With Grabbers , I tried to give the monster as much personality as I could through its behaviour and its lifecycle, the fact that it needed to be wet to walk on land, and it pops people’s head off and drinks their blood. Just stuff like that. You can sort of take your monster and give it its own idiosyncratic personality and traits.”

He also recommends linking your characters to the monster. “I try to apply logic to what I’m doing, so it’s like the monster represents something about a character’s personal flaws.”

Think like a comedian

A slightly unexpected bit of advice that several writers gave me was that horror should work kind of like comedy. Mark Huckerby explains, “Nick and I started out in comedy, and we always say that comedy and horror are very close in some ways. A good joke is told with a build-up, which is the tension, and the punchline, which is the release. I don’t know whether our love of horror came from our love of making people laugh, but they’re very similar. Often, you’ll hear people in the cinema, when they’re really scared, will laugh as well as scream.”

Moran concurs, seeing an audience’s reaction to a scare as being the same kind of physical reaction that audiences will have to comedy, and that means that not every scare will work for everyone, every time. “There are some comedies you’re either gonna laugh at or you’re not, and you can sit there and explain to yourself that it’s funny because of x, y, and z, but if it doesn’t make you laugh it doesn’t make you laugh,” he says. “The same goes for horror – if it doesn’t make you jump, I could explain why it made me scared but it won’t necessarily make someone else scared.”

Push boundaries

There are plenty of films that blend horror with comedy, of course – and tons of films that use horror tropes to tell the kinds of stories you might expect to find in other genres. The Blaine Brothers, who co-wrote and co-directed Nina Forever , told me they didn’t think of their film as a horror when they made it.

“It basically came out of death and grief, first witnessing other people’s grief and then experiencing our own,” said Ben Blaine. While the film uses some pretty horrific imagery – including a woman returning from the dead, still bloody and battered – it doesn’t have a traditional horror narrative. The Blaines were happy that horror audiences embraced their film, and reckon it’s valid to cross the streams. Chris Blaine says “The exciting thing is seeing people use the genre to explain a thought or feeling or emotion; finding a way of explaining life by using a fantastical metaphor.”

Having made two films that are more ‘horror and…’ rather than straight horrors, Lowe agrees. “It’s debatable whether Prevenge is a classic horror, in the same sense that Sightseers isn’t your typical horror,” she says. “It’s got moments of horror, but other moments that dip into social satire, or realism, or even surrealism, in some parts! The best thing horror can do is be its own thing and find new genres and new ideas, rather than resorting to the same old same old, which eventually becomes predictable. That isn’t scary at all.”

So if you’ve got an off-beat idea that you’re not sure is really a proper horror film, that might actually be a great thing. “What I feel is, horror shouldn’t be treated like a box,” says Lowe. “It should be a peg that you can hang onto, along with lots of other pegs that you can put your project on. It’s something to be inspired by, rather than trapped by, really.”

Slow it down

Let’s get down to specifics. How do you make a film scary? One way is to slow down the pace, drag things out a little longer, and spend longer building atmosphere. “When you watch a film and there’s just a cheap orchestral stab, you think ‘well, that’s completely unearned.’ Anyone can say boo and make you jump,” says Huckerby. “But in more modern horror – I think James Wan is quite good at this – there’s this relentless building, and building, and holding… some of those sequences go on longer than you can even stand.”

His co-writer agrees. Talking about writing urban witch movie Don’t Knock Twice , Ostler says, “We went back to scare scenes and wrote in longer and longer build ups, because we realised that’s really where the scare comes from. Over 90 minutes, you can get away with a couple of cheap jump scares, and they can be fun, and you can get away with a dream scare, which can be fun if it’s done well, and you can even get away with one mirror scare, maybe. But if that’s all you’re relying on, you’re in trouble.”

Lehane also recommends taking your time. “[Horror] needs to be quiet, it needs to be tense, and it needs to be drawn out,” he says. “You need to avoid poking fun at your villain; even if you’re doing a horror comedy, it’s good to keep the humour on the side of the characters rather than the villain. Unless it’s a party film like Return Of The Living Dead or Evil Dead ! But otherwise, you want to make sure that your villain is legitimately dangerous and frightening. And slow it down! The moment horror movies get really fast, with running and screaming and frantic behavior, that’s terror – it’s not horror any more. Horror should be slow and creepy. You allow moments of dread to creep in, and that’s when it’s really frightening.”

Don’t give the audience too much information

‘Show, don’t tell’ is probably the oldest trick in the book, but the writers I talked to for this feature went one step further and recommended keeping some things back completely, making the audience do the work themselves.

“Almost without fail, the disappointing bit in a horror movie is when whatever it is stops being in your imagination and starts being on screen,” says Ben Blaine. “You’re like, ‘oh, I imagined it and I was scared by it, and now I’ve seen it, it’s let me down’. I think there’s something in making the audience tell the story themselves.”

Ben continues, “We got some really good advice when we were making [ Nina Forever ]. We showed a cut to some people, and they said “It’s too explained. You’re too worried about letting everyone know what’s happening, and it makes it boring.” We found that when we took out the bits where we explained what was happening, not only did people still know what was happening, but you could see that they’d reached those conclusions for themselves, and they’d really bought into the film.”

Kevin Lehane says he’s doing something similar with the script he’s currently working on, a slasher titled Heads Will Roll . “Originally I put too much backstory in about the villainess,” he says “And I’ve come to realise that the more you know about a villain, the more you understand them, and the more empathy you have for them. And once you have empathy for a villain, you want to redeem them instead of kill them.”

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So if you want to freak out an audience, keep your killer in the shadows, and hint at something scary rather than throwing it in their faces. “It’s the space between the images that works on the audience,” says Ben Blaine. “It’s not the visceral side. Like, you can see a person explode, but the stuff that really gets to you is when you go, ‘there’s an empty room and outside the room is a small boy with a weird look on his face, what does that mean?’”

Watch horror movies

This is probably the most fun tip on this list: if you want to write horror movies, try watching some. You don’t necessarily need to be an expert, and your script doesn’t need to be loaded with winks and references to the films that have gone before – that’s kind of gone out of fashion now anyway – but it definitely doesn’t hurt to be familiar with the genre.

“When I’m writing something that’s in a specific genre, I’ll watch a certain number of films that are similar in tone and execution so I don’t deviate too far from the beaten path,” says Lehane. “When I was writing Grabbers I was watching Tremors a lot – Tremors and Lake Placid ! It depends how much you want to know, but the best way is just to be aware, be literate.”

Ostler says much the same thing. When I ask if he thought you needed to watch horror movies to be able to write one, he says: “You’d be daft not to. Whatever we’ve done, we’ve schooled ourselves in that genre as much as we could, but then you’ve got to be careful of ripping off things you have seen!”

Obviously, there’s no exam you have to pass before you can think about writing your own stories, but while being accused of plagiarism is a risk, you could run into just as much trouble by not knowing what’s already out there. As Lehane says, “You don’t want to be trying to do a horror film set on Halloween about a guy in a white mask!”

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How To Write A Horror Movie 1st Edition, Kindle Edition

How to Write a Horror Movie is a close look at an always-popular (but often disrespected) genre. It focuses on the screenplay and acts as a guide to bringing scary ideas to cinematic life using examples from great (and some not-so-great) horror movies. Author Neal Bell examines how the basic tools of the scriptwriter’s trade - including structure, dialogue, humor, mood, characters, and pace – can work together to embody personal fears that will resonate strongly on screen. Screenplay examples include classic works such as 1943’s I Walked With A Zombie and recent terrifying films that have given the genre renewed attention like writer/director Jordan Peele’s critically acclaimed and financially successful G e t Out. Since fear is universal, the book considers films from around the world including the ‘found-footage’ [REC] from Spain (2007), the Swedish vampire movie, Let The Right One In (2008) and the Persian-language film Under The Shadow (2016).

The book provides insights into the economics of horror-movie making, and the possible future of this versatile genre. It is the ideal text for screenwriting students exploring genre and horror, and aspiring scriptwriters who have an interest in horror screenplays.

• ISBN-13 978-1032073088
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• Publication date March 20, 2020
• Language English
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Editorial Reviews

"Here is a book that teaches how to think like a horror writer, that demonstrates how a deep knowledge of the literature can influence a modern script, and that thoughtfully conveys the craft necessary to write the artform."

Terry Curtis Fox , Chair, Goldberg Department of Dramatic Writing, NYU Tisch School of the Arts

About the Author

Neal Bell is a writer and professor of play and screenwriting at Duke University and has received grants from the Rockefeller and Guggenheim Foundations, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Winner of an Obie Award for sustained excellence in playwriting, he’s been a script consultant for HBO, and also received an Edgar Award for Best Mystery Play for Spatter Pattern.

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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08668DYMX
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Routledge; 1st edition (March 20, 2020)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 20, 2020
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 4300 KB
• Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Up to 4 simultaneous devices, per publisher limits
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• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 180 pages
• Page numbers source ISBN ‏ : ‎ 0367151650
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5 writing tips for a horror film review to make heart miss a beat

Writing a review that can inspire your readers to watch a movie is a challenging task. Especially if it’s a horror film that is typically loved by very few people. Most of us rarely prefer this genre because it makes us experience contradictory emotions, from joy to panic. But what if your job is to persuade people that there is something worth their attention in the horror genre? How to make others willing to watch a horror film despite the negative feelings it may cause?

Before we dig deeper into the details of writing, let’s make your purpose clear. Your main goal is to give readers detailed information about the movie avoiding spoilers. Also, your movie analysis shouldn’t be boring, it must entertain your readers.

Even if it seems that you are not able to write exciting reviews, it’s not really true. In fact, this is a skill that can be developed through consistent practice and a systematic approach with the help of some organization apps .

Just think that you were not born with all the skills you have now. Probably, you’ve spent much time mastering them. The same works for review writing. But what to do if you have an urgent assignment at college and no time to practice? In this case, you can turn for help to https://writix.co.uk/write-my-assignment , which is a service that can complete a pretty good assignment for you. If you ask for assistance on their website, you will get a paper of high quality as soon as possible. Remember that keeping the quality of your writing works is important for an overall semester rate. Anyways, if you want to create a review on your own, check some valuable tips below!

Discuss emotions One of the most common reasons why people watch horror movies is to experience a full range of emotions. They want to be surprised, amused, excited and terrified at the same time. Hence, you should let your readers know what emotions they are more likely to have.

It would be great if your review could evoke the same feelings as the movie does. In order to describe the fear caused by a film, describe your physical sensations experienced while watching it. You can say that you had goosebumps, wide eyes, or shaking hands during particular threatful scenes.

Sometimes, a movie turns out to be funny but not frightening, so people feel deeply disappointed. Instead of facing their inner fears, they are just chilling while watching a film. So warn your readers about such unpredictable things and they will be grateful for saving their time for a more suitable movie.

Mention plot twists The best way to surprise your readers is by including plot twists in your review. Unexpectable scenes can literally leave people breathless, so you should definitely tell about them. Illustrate how unpredictable the plot is and explain why it isn’t so clear as it might seem at the beginning. You can do it by asking open questions and not giving answers to them, so your readers start wondering what could happen next.

This will make your review more engaging and exhilarating. But be careful with spoilers, nobody will appreciate it if you make things obvious.

Describe special effects Modern horror movies are full of various special effects, so you should describe them as well. Tell your readers if special effects are of high quality and whether they look realistic. Illustrate the most impressive scenes with FX to help others feel like they are already watching a movie. You can do this by writing about some murders, scenes with blood, or suffocates.

Obviously, people try to avoid films with low-budget effects because they can spoil even the greatest plot. Since special effects influence an overall impression a lot, you should warn your readers about any troubles with FX you might notice.

Tell a story For sure, your readers would like to get some insights on a movie storyline. Therefore, you can tell them if it looks believable and share some general details that produce interest. Think if the scenes transition smoothly or they seem quite abrupt. Tell your readers if the story is original and whether it flows well.

While giving such information, remember that your aim is to create an inspiring review, so don’t be too boring. That’s why you should use a lot of adjectives and metaphors characterizing story elements. Make your description vivid to evoke readers’ imagination.

Illustrate characters Effective character description is another thing that can make your review more emotional. Mention physical attributes that are likely to impress others but don’t rely solely on them. It would be better to write about your reactions associated with appearance.

To sharpen your description and make characters believable to readers, tell about their specific actions. This means you shouldn’t mention generic activities done by them. Instead, write about frightening and extraordinary things they are doing in the movie.

ScepticThomas. c om ©

Compendium of horror, fear, and the grotesque.

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• How to Wr ite a Review
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• Jung on Dreams
• Freud on Dreams

How to Write a Horror Movie Review

Introduction.

Analyzing a horror movie for review is a rational way of looking at the movie as an art form and an entertainment medium. It’s a horror movie, so for me the entertainment value should be a given; either the movie entertains or it does not. If it fails to entertain, I won’t review the film. That leaves analyzing the movie as an art form; and since analysis is a craft that can be learned, taking a systematic approach to analysis is the most expedient way to develop your writing skills.

Preparation

Let’s start with the steps you should take before writing your review. If you follow these steps you will keep focused on the quality of the horror movie and not waste time trying to figure out what you want to say. Once you’ve completed this exercise and have a comfortable understanding of all the possible elements to critique, I’ll show you how to start writing your review.

Good analysis always begins with a clear definition of terms. So just think of a horror movie as consisting of two parts: the “production” and the “film.”  

Step 1: Review the key elements that make up the production

“Production” involves two groups of individuals working as a team; film crew and actors. The film crew generally consists of the following roles and responsibilities:

• Producer —chief executive officer of the entire production; the “vision” advocate
• Director —responsible for all creative control of the film; “vision” executor
• Writer —responsible for writing the screenplay or the story
• Production Designer —manages art, set, special effects, costumes, and make-up
• Director of Photography —manages all the visuals (cinematographer)
• Sound Director —manages all sounds, including foley
• Film Editor —manages editing and sequencing

Since movie making is a team effort, success of the film depends on how well the actors and film crew work together under the leadership of the Director. Though the Producer is traditionally the individual with the overall “vision” for the film and who maintains absolute control over production, it is the Director who is often featured as the individual with the “creative” control. The rest of the film crew and the actors defer to the Director’s creative vision in exercising their individual crafts.

Step 2: Review the key elements that make up the film

“Film” is the completed movie that we watch on the screen. It consists of a story within a setting populated by characters journeying through the story’s timeline. Just like a novel or a short story the horror movie has a beginning, a middle, and an end. The key elements of the film are:

• Character —the people or beings portrayed by the actors
• Setting —the location, time, and mood of the action (visual and auditory)
• Story Line —the plot or sequence of events leading to a resolution or climax (the story can be conveyed through narrative, dialogue, or action)
• Point of View —the perspective from which a scene or the entire movie is viewed (point of view basically is how the viewer learns the “truth” of the story)
• Theme —the controlling concept or overall message of the film (what evokes the horror)

Step 3: Identify each of the production and film elements in your horror movie

This step is as simple as jotting down the names of the film crew and actors and then making a list to identify the characters, setting, and other elements of the finished movie. Following these steps before you begin writing a review not only clarifies the concrete elements of the film, but it narrows your focus and helps you identify the controlling concept (comparable to a thesis statement in a term paper) of your review.

Why is narrowing your focus and identifying your controlling concept so important? Because a movie review must be short, concise, clear, and convincing. Whether your review is intended to promote the movie or to pan it, it must convince your reader that your perspective is reasonable and your judgment is sound. I’ve included a Key Horror Movie Elements template to get you started. All you have to do is jot down the name of your horror movie at the top, identify each element, and write any comments or observations you have about each. You may decide you have nothing to say about some of the elements and that is OK. If you can’t identify any of the elements from memory, go to http://www.IMDB.com and get the information. It is your responsibility as a movie reviewer to research the information and at least be cognizant of the elements in your horror movie.

Step 4: Quiz yourself on the effectiveness of your horror movie

Asking yourself a series of questions about the movie based on your knowledge of the elements tells you what to write about. I’ve supplied some questions for you to ponder. You don’t have to answer all of them, but the answers that come most easily to you will indicate your approach to writing the review and focus you on that topic. A horror movie is a complex group effort, so sometimes it isn’t completely clear which of the roles deserves the credit or the blame. Here is the Q&A, a list of questions with suggested roles in parentheses to help you decide the strengths and weaknesses of your horror movie [printable copy of Q&A] :

·         How compelling is the theme of the movie?

·         Is the premise realistic for a horror movie?

·         Is the theme original or formulaic?

Story Line:

·         How well does the story flow (Writing)?

·         Does the story unfold through narration, dialogue, action or a combination? (Writing)

·         Does the sequencing of the scenes support the story line or complicate it? (Directing)?

·         Do the scenes transition smoothly or seem arbitrary or abrupt (Editing)?

·         Is the story original or formulaic? (Writing)

·         Is the story believable within the context of the movie’s premise (Writing, Directing)?

·         Is the story timeline sequential, non-sequential, or unclear (Directing)?

·         Are the characters believable and realistic (Acting)?

·         Are the characters’ actions and placement natural (Directing)?

·         Does the performance of an actor stand out in a particular scene (Acting)?

Point of View:

·         Is the point of view of the movie through the characters (Writing)?

·         Is the point of view of the movie through the action (Cinematography, Directing)?

·         Is the point of view of the movie through a narrator (Writing)?

·         Is the setting of the story typical for a horror movie (Directing, Production Design)?

·         Does the setting set and sustain the appropriate mood for the movie (Directing, Production Design)?

·         Does the music score support the setting and the story (Sound Direction)?

·         Does the foley fit in seamlessly and not detract from the action (Sound Direction, Foley)?

·         Is the sound level consistent or are there level changes that are appropriate for enhancing certain scenes (Sound Directing)?

·         If special effects are used, are they well constructed and effective (Production Design)?

·         Do the special effects placements add or detract from the story (Directing)

·         Do all the elements of the horror movie work together in harmony to make the movie a perfect blend of technical and artistic qualities (Directing)?

·         If all the elements do not blend, which ones stick out and why (Directing)?

·         Does the movie as a whole elicit a response from you consistent with a natural response to witnessing something horrifying (Directing)?

The list of questions is not exhaustive. There are hundreds of questions you can ask as you review how effectively the elements of the movie are treated. But the list will give you a place to start and facilitate your job as horror movie researcher before you write your review. The more detailed your answers to the questions, the more focused and clear your review will be. You can even come up with your own questions and observations to add to the list. As long as you can answer your own questions you won’t have any trouble satisfying your audience.

Writing Your Review

I have selected the horror movie Heart of Midnight as the subject of my sample review. Here is a summary of the production and movie elements with sample commentary in red:

Here are sample answers to the Q&A in red:

  Theme:

·         How compelling is the theme of the movie? Very compelling; the horror seems to come from within Carol’s mind.

·         Is the premise realistic for a horror movie? Yes. True madness and mind disintegration is the biological basis for horror. Is the theme original or formulaic? The theme is quite original in that is uses the protagonist’s imagination to filter the viewers’ understanding of the events.

·         How well does the story flow (Writing)? The story flows quite well; Carol is intent on making a life for herself at the Midnight and never stops trying.

·         Does the story unfold through narration, dialogue, action or a combination (Writing)? The story unfolds through language, camera work, and action; case in point: when Carol first runs into the character played by Peter Coyote she says, “Tell me you’re Detective Sharpe” and he obeys; this character is fulfilling Carol’s wish within the story. Often the action and camera work belie what the dialogue or language suggests: the scene where Carol’s alleged rapists are congregating suggests that even though she feels they are spying on her through the window, they don’t have a clear view of her window. The alleged rape scene shows Carol always fully clothed, suggesting that the rape was imagined.

·         Does the sequencing of the scenes support the story line or complicate it (Directing)? The sequencing of the scenes deliberately complicates the story. It is the Director’s way of presenting a world viewed through psychosis.

·         Do the scenes transition smoothly or seem arbitrary or abrupt (Editing)? The scene transitions vary from smooth to abrupt; but this is part of the technique to show how some days are good and others steeped in psychosis.

·         Is the story original or formulaic (Writing)? The story is original.

·         Is the story believable within the context of the movie’s premise (Writing, Directing)? Very believable. You know that Carol is insane and that the horror is real.

·         Is the story timeline sequential, non-sequential, or unclear (Directing)? The story line moves along a continuum that demonstrates an altered reality.

·         Are the characters believable and realistic (Acting)? The main characters are believable and rounded. Some of the minor characters are two dimensional, indicating that they are the figment of Carol’s imagination.

·         Are the characters’ actions and placement natural (Directing)? Yes. In Carol’s world sanity and insanity run parallel and then intersect. The character placement supports that notion.

·         Does the performance of an actor stand out in a particular scene (Acting)? Leigh’s and Coyote’s performances are so much in sync that their characters interact like two dancers. Often when the two run into each other they actually back into one another. That is more of a Directing technique to show that the characters become aware of each other only indirectly.

·         Is the point of view of the movie through the characters (Writing)? The point of view comes almost exclusively from Carol’s perspective.

·         Is the point of view of the movie through the action (Cinematography, Directing)? The action and camera work often contradict Carol’s point of view.

·         Is the point of view of the movie through a narrator (Writing)? No.

·         Is the setting of the story typical for a horror movie (Directing, Production Design)? Yes. The Midnight is comparable to the gothic “mansion” or “castle” with hidden rooms and an oppressive atmosphere.

·         Does the setting set and sustain the appropriate mood for the movie (Directing, Production Design)? Yes. The Midnight sequesters its victim in typical gothic fashion. Carol cannot escape the setting and in a sense becomes trapped in her own nightmare.

·         Does the music score support the setting and the story (Sound Direction)? Yanni’s score is perfect for this movie. Also the choice of Ethel Water’s “Baby, What Else Can I Do” might have been done to set a nostalgic mood, but it inadvertently (I can’t believe it was planned) supports the central gothic image by talking about a “mansion” with a king and queen.

·         Does the foley fit in seamlessly and not detract from the action (Sound Direction, Foley)? Yes. The foley adds to the surprise, horror, and supernatural effect very well.

·         Is the sound level consistent or are there level changes that are appropriate for enhancing certain scenes (Sound Directing)? The sound level is skillfully varied for effect when the element of surprise is required.

·         If special effects are used, are they well constructed and effective (Production Design)? The special effects are adequate and not overdone.

·         Do the special effects placements add or detract from the story (Directing)? They support the story.

·         Do all the elements of the horror movie work together in harmony to make the movie a perfect blend of technical and artistic qualities (Directing)? Very nearly. There are a few minor technical flaws like microphones appearing in scenes, but generally well done.

·         If all the elements do not blend, which ones stick out and why (Directing)? None.

·         Does the movie as a whole elicit a response from you consistent with a natural response to witnessing something horrifying (Directing)? Yes. The ending is stunning. Throughout the movie Carol is in a foot cast (“an elephant trod upon it”). She looks angry, terrified, unhinged throughout, but at the end the cast is gone and she looks beautiful. Also throughout the film the phrase “things always come in threes” is repeated. At the end Carol and Sharpe/Larry are slow dancing to the Ethel Waters song. Sharpe is starting to answer questions for Carol that have haunted her. The final answer that Sharpe offers is the answer to the question about threes: “You wanna know what three is?”   But instead of letting the audience know the answer, he whispers it into Carol’s ear as the film ends. The look on Carol’s face encapsulates the secret meaning and exposes the horror to Carol. The audience is left with only the feeling of dread and horror, robbed of direct communication. Very much the way fear is communicated in a nightmare.

Now that you have the information you collected using the elements template and the Q&A, you can take your answers and organize them into a written review. The elements sheet provides you with the facts; the Q&A provides you with your opinions. Just use the information wholesale, reorganize it as needed, edit your sentences, and you’ve got your horror movie review. Here is what a sample review might look like using the information and techniques I’ve detailed.

Review of Heart of Midnight by David R. Saliba

Matthew Chapman shows his mastery of writing and directing by creating a haunting horror movie that draws on classic gothic cinema while retaining an originality all its own. Madness and mind disintegration are the biological basis of Chapman’s horror. The story opens with Carol Rivers (Jennifer Jason Leigh) leaving her mother (Brenda Vaccaro) to make a life for herself at “The Midnight,” a seedy nightclub she inherits from her dead uncle Fletcher. Carol has been battling psychological problems and convinces her mother that she has to be on her own to try to regain her mental health. Chapman expertly unfolds his story through language, camera work, and action. He uses visual metaphors to reveal information about the plot that the protagonist cannot see for herself. Even though the point of view comes almost exclusively from Carol’s perspective, Chapman subtly employs action and camera angles to contradict Carol’s point of view. When Carol and the character played by Peter Coyote meet, they back into each other. This is Chapman’s way of symbolizing for the audience something that Carol does not yet know (but that a savvy horror audience might pick up). Her unusual reaction to their surprise meeting is to demand between clenched teeth, “Tell me you’re Detective Sharpe.” Coyote’s character immediately obeys and Chapman has sequestered his audience like the classic victim in a gothic tale. Leigh’s and Coyote’s performances are so much in sync that their characters interact like two dancers. Chapman is keen on that metaphor and carries it to the final scene of the movie where he skillfully victimizes the audience for the last time.

Chapman sets up “The Midnight” as the classic gothic “mansion” with hidden rooms and an oppressive atmosphere. The Midnight sequesters its main victim, Carol, in a setting that becomes her own worst nightmare. The constant oppression of fear and confusion is enhanced by Yanni’s music score that captures the mood of entrapment and horror. The choice of Ethel Water’s “Baby, What Else Can I Do,” introduced early in the movie, might have been made for its nostalgic tone; but ironically the lyrics include a “mansion,” thus supporting the central gothic image found in all good horror stories. The sound level is skillfully varied for effect whenever the element of surprise is required. And the foley introduces surprise, horror, and supernatural effects unobtrusively.

The film’s ending is stunning. Throughout the movie Carol is in a foot cast (“an elephant trod upon it”). She looks angry, confused, terrified, unhinged throughout, but at the end of the movie the cast is off her foot and she looks reborn and beautiful. On several occasions throughout the film Carol uses the phrase, “things always come in threes,” as a petition. At the end Carol and Coyote’s character begin to slow dance to the Ethel Waters song. As they dance Coyote’s character starts to answer questions that have haunted Carol (and the audience). Coyote’s character asks Carol: “You wanna know what three is?”   But as Carol nods (apparently dreading the answer), instead of sharing the answer with the audience he whispers it into Carol’s ear; a scene reminiscent of the end in O’Connor’s “Greenleaf.” The look on Carol’s face exposes the horror of the secret. The audience is left with only the music playing, the feeling of dread and horror; robbed of a definitive answer and of any hope for salvation. Chapman’s close has the same effect on us as the fear generated by a nightmare.

I encourage you to try this approach to writing your next horror movie review. And I encourage you to start posting your reviews on www.Amazon.com or on www.IMDB.com . Once you get into the habit of following this method you’ll discover how smoothly your ideas and writing flow. Here is a quick summary of the steps I detailed earlier:

Step 1:    Review the key elements that make up the production

Step 2:    Review the key elements that make up the film

Step 3:    Identify each of the production and film elements in your horror movie

Step 4:    Quiz yourself on the effectiveness of your horror movie

Step 5:    Take the information you supplied in Steps 3 and 4 and organize it into a 500-1000 word review

Step 6:    Edit your new review for final presentation

Step 7:    Log on to Amazon.com or IMDB and publish your work

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