Special effects play a crucial role in the horror genre of film, as they help to create a sense of fear and tension for the audience. From the earliest days of cinema, filmmakers have used a variety of techniques to achieve this goal, including practical effects, makeup, and digital effects.
Practical effects are physical effects that are created on set or in a studio, rather than being added in post-production. These can include prosthetics, makeup, and special sets or props. One of the most famous examples of practical effects in horror is the makeup used to create the monster in the classic film Frankenstein. The makeup artist Jack Pierce used a combination of rubber prosthetics, makeup, and cords to create the iconic look of the monster, which has been replicated in countless adaptations of the story.
Makeup can also be used to create disturbing or disturbing characters. For example, the 1979 film The Texas Chain Saw Massacre used makeup to create the ghoulish appearance of the film's killer, Leatherface. The makeup artist Tom Savini used a combination of prosthetics and makeup to create the character's grotesque face, which helped to make the film even more terrifying for audiences.
Digital effects have become increasingly important in the horror genre in recent years, as they allow filmmakers to create even more elaborate and realistic special effects. Digital effects can be used to create creatures, gore, and other horror elements that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with practical effects. For example, the film The Conjuring used a combination of practical and digital effects to create the terrifying ghost character known as Annabelle. The digital effects allowed the filmmakers to create a more realistic and unsettling appearance for the character, which added to the film's overall sense of terror.
Overall, special effects are a key component of the horror genre, and their use has evolved significantly over the years. From the early days of cinema to the present, filmmakers have used a variety of techniques to create frightening and disturbing effects that help to enhance the horror experience for audiences. So, special effects play a vital role in horror movies to create a sense of fear and tension for the audience.