Baroque Aesthetics in Contemporary American Horror

The modern American horror film and television trend of combining multiple stock characters, themes, and tropes from classic horror films is explored in this book. It looks at how these hybrid products are made and discusses the socio-political issues they raise, comparing them to Baroque art and architecture, Asian Horror, and European Horror. The Baroque Horror aesthetic, which causes shock, awe, fear, and surprise, is created by the frantic accumulation of images, tropes, and plot twists in these films and series.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 179 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into a fascinating trend that has been prevalent in recent years within the realm of American horror film and television. It explores the simultaneous and often overwhelming use of multiple stock characters, themes, and tropes drawn from the classics of the genre. Examples such as American Horror Story, Insidious, and The Conjuring exemplify a cinematic inclination to address a vast array of topics and themes, which, at first glance, may appear sufficient for individual films or shows. However, this book goes beyond its focus on American Horror and delves into its connections with cultural and artistic movements from outside the United States, including Baroque art and architecture, Asian Horror, and European Horror. By analyzing the construction of these hybrid products and engaging in a thoughtful discussion of the socio-political issues they raise, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of this trend.

What emerges is a captivating aesthetic known as Baroque Horror, which is characterized by the repeated and excessive barrage of images, tropes, and scenarios from distinct subgenres of iconic horror films. These productions elicit a range of emotions, including shock, awe, fear, and surprise, reminiscent of the artistic movement of the same name that flourished in the 17th century. The book meticulously details how American directors and filmmakers skillfully construct these narratives by seamlessly blending different and sometimes disparate elements, creating a terrifying experience for the audience through their frenetic accumulation of images, tropes, and plot twists.

Furthermore, the book addresses the profound effects that these complex films and series have had on the landscape of contemporary horror and on our understanding of politics in a world that increasingly promotes ideological homogenization. It sheds light on the ways in which these productions challenge societal norms, question established beliefs, and provoke thought-provoking discussions. By examining the intricate interplay between horror, culture, and politics, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of film studies and offers a deeper appreciation for the rich and complex tapestry of the horror genre.

Weight: 253g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030882532
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021