The Scariest Things Ever Portrayed: From Films to Real-Life Events
Throughout history, human beings have instilled fear in their stories, media, and real-life experiences. From the psychological terror of films to the raw intensity of real-life events, the concept of what is truly scary is as vast and varied as our imagination.
Media
Films
Films have been a powerful medium to explore what is truly scary, often leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Let's delve into some of the scariest films ever created.
Renowned for its intense themes of demonic possession and psychological horror, The Exorcist (1973) stands as a pillar of the horror genre. Directed by William Friedkin, this film has captivated audiences with its spine-chilling moments and deep emotional impact. The film's depiction of demonic possession and the psychological breakdown of young Regan has left a lasting imprint on generations of horror fans.
Hereditary (2018), on the other hand, explores family trauma and grief through a disturbing supernatural twist. Not only does this film delve into the darker aspects of familial relationships, but it also leaves viewers unsettled long after the credits have rolled. Many critics and audiences consider it one of the scariest modern horror films, primarily because of the psychological intensity of its narrative.
The Shining (1980) is another classic that combines psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating an unsettling atmosphere. Adapted from Stephen King's novel, this film directed by Stanley Kubrick is known for its eerie settings and chilling atmosphere, making viewers question the sanity of the protagonist, Jack Torrance. The film's use of minimal dialogue and haunting visuals adds to its psychological horror.
Books
Books have equally been powerful in portraying what is truly scary. They often delve into the depths of the human psyche and create a sense of dread and disorientation.
A Shape-shifting entity that preys on children, tapping into deep-seated fears, books such as The Shining Girls (2014) by Lauren Beukes, are chilling in their exploration of fear. With its complex narrative and structure, the story keeps readers on edge, never knowing what will happen next. Beukes masterfully taps into the primal fears of the audience, making the narrative both terrifying and unforgettable.
Art
Art has the power to instill fear by evoking deep emotions and unsettling themes. Here are a few artistic masterpieces that are hauntingly memorable.
Edvard Munch's iconic painting, The Scream, evokes feelings of existential dread and anxiety. The distorted figure with its piercing eyes and open mouth conveys a sense of profound distress, making it one of the most recognizable and haunting images in the world of art. Visitors often feel an immediate connection to the painting and its subject, mirroring their own anxieties.
Francisco Goya's Disasters of War, a series of etchings created during the Peninsular War, illustrates themes of madness and horror. These stark and unflinching images leave viewers unsettled, often evoking a visceral reaction and a deeper understanding of the horrors of war and human conflict.
Video Games
Silent Hill 2 (2001) is renowned for its psychological horror elements and atmosphere, delving into themes of guilt and trauma. This game brings the psychological horror to a new level by integrating the player's deepest fears within the gameplay. The atmosphere is so intense that players often find themselves on edge, questioning their grip on reality.
The Resident Evil series (1996-2023) is known for jump scares and survival horror mechanics, having frightened players for decades. These games are not only about the jump scares but also about survival in the face of relentless enemies. The series creates a sense of dread from the beginning, making players dread every journey through the dark, shadowy environments.
Real-Life Events
Beyond the realms of fiction, real-life events such as true crime stories or natural disasters can also be incredibly frightening. These events often capture the unpredictability and real danger that can strike at any moment. For example, true crime stories like the General Colin Powell case or even natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes evoke visceral fear in people, as they remind us of the harsh realities of life.
A personal experience that was both scary and heartache involved a work event. Working in a doctor's lab, a colleague and I had to walk past a room containing the offices. When I entered this room, I came face to face with a disturbing sight—a baby in a gallon jar, with a hole in its head and bluish-tinted fingernails. It was a surreal and chilling experience that brought forth a realization of the darkest aspects of human nature.
Another real-life scare came from my own dog attacking me. It was a life-changing event that taught me the importance of understanding animal behavior. Such incidents remind us of the unpredictable and sometimes terrifying nature of real-life events.
Conclusion
Ultimately, what is scary is a vast and varied concept, encompassing everything from the horrors portrayed in films, books, and art to real-life events that can be as terrifying as they are unpredictable. Whether it is the psychological intensity of horror films or the raw realism of true crime stories, the fear we experience can be a powerful reminder of the unknown and the human condition.