Navigating the Terror: Can You Overcome Your Fear of Horror Movies Without Letting Go of the Thrill?
When it comes to horror movies, some folks are die-hard fans, relishing the chance to get scared and experience the thrill of the unknown. Others, on the other hand, find the genre intensely terrifying, with one particularly haunting tale from the Triology of Terror leaving a lasting impression. However, can the fear of horror movies be overcome without completely eliminating the excitement and intrigue they offer?
Breaking Down the Fear
I recollect facing my fears head-on, viewing horror movies not as emergencies but as MOVIES—entertainment designed to engage and thrill audiences. It's essential to remember that behind every horror movie lie talented teams of writers, directors, and crew members. Their expertise is in crafting captivating stories that may cause fear but are ultimately just stories.
For instance, consider the commercial aired in the 1970s for a movie called Dogs. At the time, I was only a four-year-old child, and the commercial incited my imagination, making the movie seem much scarier than it would have been in real life. Later in my life, when I finally had the opportunity to watch it, the film turned out to be far less terrifying than my youthful fears had led to believe.
The Evolution of Perception
When my children were young, I found it helpful to explain the process of making horror movies—revealing that they are crafted by dedicated professionals and that the scary scenes are carefully staged. I aimed to provide context and information to dispel the fear inherent in the unknown. However, it wasn't long before those explanations started to backfire. My explanations had the unintended consequence of dampening their initial excitement and thrilling experience of being scared.
Years later, my children came to me with a mix of frustration and disappointment. They felt that I had 'ruined' the terror for them. They craved the raw, adrenaline-pumping feeling that came with getting scared, and those explanations had robbed them of that experience. Even so, my sincere intention was to help them understand and not to incite unnecessary fear.
It Is Possible to Overcome Your Fear
Based on my experience, I would say it is indeed possible to overcome a fear of horror movies without letting go of the thrill they offer. Here are some strategies that might be effective:
1. Educate Yourself
Understanding how horror movies are made can go a long way in demystifying them. Familiarize yourself with the behind-the-scenes secrets. Learn about the craftspeople who bring horrifying visuals to life. This knowledge can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed and help you appreciate the artistry involved.
2. Start Slow
If you're not ready to dive into full-on gory or intense horror movies, start with a lighter horror-comedy like Pineapple Express or a lesser-known entry in the genre. These films often mix humor with scares, making the experience less daunting.
3. Choose the Right Setting
Watch horror movies in a comfortable, safe environment where you can control the volume and exit if it gets too much. This can help you build confidence and gradually build up your threshold for fear.
4. Allow Yourself to Enjoy It
Remember, the goal is not to overcome the fear completely but to learn to enjoy the experience. Embrace the thrill, the tension, and the sense of community formed by watching scary movies with friends or family.
5. Reflect on Personal Growth
Every time you successfully watch a horror movie and manage to enjoy it, reflect on your personal growth. You can celebrate each small step forward and use it as motivation to tackle your fear head-on.
Conclusion
While it might seem paradoxical, the journey to overcome your fear of horror movies is closely tied to the thrill you can still experience. By learning, gradually building your courage, and allowing yourself to enjoy the process, you can navigate the fear without losing sight of the entertainment value. So, embrace the terror and thrills of horror movies, and dive into the genre with the confidence that comes from understanding and overcoming your fears.