Christian Knöppler's study explores the phenomenon of horror film remakes, arguing that they refigure monsters and horror scenarios to access and update obscure cultural fears, offering fresh insights to scholars and aficionados.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

The horror genre is known for its ability to bring back monsters in new and terrifying shapes for each installment. In this study, Christian Knöppler explores the phenomenon of horror film remakes. He argues that while these derivative films may not receive much praise from critics, they serve a valuable purpose by refiguring monsters and horror scenarios and accessing and updating otherwise obscure cultural fears. Knöppler's book examines six sample sequences of films and remakes in detail, offering fresh insights to scholars and aficionados alike.

The Horror Genre's Eternal Monsters

The horror genre is known for its ability to bring back monsters in new and terrifying shapes for each installment. In this study, Christian Knöppler explores the phenomenon of horror film remakes. He argues that while these derivative films may not receive much praise from critics, they serve a valuable purpose by refiguring monsters and horror scenarios and accessing and updating otherwise obscure cultural fears. Knöppler's book examines six sample sequences of films and remakes in detail, offering fresh insights to scholars and aficionados alike.

The Refiguration of Monsters and Horror Scenarios

Knöppler argues that horror film remakes are not simply cash-grabbing exercises but rather a means of accessing and updating otherwise obscure cultural fears. By refiguring monsters and horror scenarios, these films can provide a fresh perspective on familiar themes and characters, making them more relevant to modern audiences. For example, the remake of "The Exorcist" (1973) introduced a new generation to the horror of demonic possession, while the remake of "The Shining" (1980) explored the psychological effects of isolation and madness.

The Impact of Horror Film Remakes on Cultural Fears

Horror film remakes have had a significant impact on cultural fears. They have helped to normalize previously taboo topics, such as violence, sexuality, and mental illness. By presenting these topics in a more accessible and relatable way, horror film remakes can help to reduce stigma and promote understanding. For example, the remake of "The Exorcist" (1973) helped to dispel the myth that exorcisms were only performed on mentally ill individuals, while the remake of "The Shining" (1980) explored the psychological effects of isolation and madness.

The Sample Sequences of Films and Remakes

Knöppler's book examines six sample sequences of films and remakes in detail. These sequences include "The Exorcist" (1973), "The Shining" (1980), "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" (1974), "The Ring" (2002), "The Cabin in the Woods" (2011), and "The Conjuring" (2013). Each sequence is analyzed in terms of its narrative structure, visual style, and cultural significance. Knöppler also discusses the challenges that filmmakers face when remaking a horror film, such as maintaining the original's tone and atmosphere, and the impact of technology on the genre.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christian Knöppler's study of horror film remakes offers fresh insights to scholars and aficionados alike. By refiguring monsters and horror scenarios, these films can provide a fresh perspective on familiar themes and characters, making them more relevant to modern audiences. They have also had a significant impact on cultural fears, helping to normalize previously taboo topics and reduce stigma. Knöppler's book examines six sample sequences of films and remakes in detail, offering valuable insights into the genre.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837637359