In horror films, one of the most common plot elements used by screenwriters is the “shock factor.” This refers to a scene being perfectly calm, maybe even happy or optimistic; however, this “happy” sensation is quickly changed due to a horrific circumstance. For example, in a scene you could be having a bonding conversation with your lover. You two are about to confess your true love for one another, then suddenly, a scream is heard in the distance followed by another scream and an unsettling “whack” sound.
This set up is used to draw the audience in with a false sense of security that everything in the characters’ world is just fine. Their lives are just like the audience members. They are experiencing the joys of life when true hell breaks loose.
As a horror film actor you must use the calm before the gory storm to your advantage. In auditions, I’ve seen many actors not take advantage of these quiet moments to build a character’s reputation and realism. Many aspiring horror film actors view these scenes as nothing more than “fluff;” however, this is the furthest from the truth. These calm, and peaceful scenes are used to create a backstory for the character, which is then called upon later on in the movie to draw sympathy or hate for a specific character.
When acting in this type of scene, use the dialogue and actions to further the depth of your character. One trick you should remember is to try to portray this scene in the calmest manner as possible. The calmer you portray a character, the bigger the scare and horror will be when the scene changes into something out of the depths of hell.
While writing this article, I kept thinking of a popular and iconic scene in the first “Scream.” The character played by Drew Barrymore is relaxing in her home, getting ready to have a fun and ordinary night at home watching some movies. Suddenly, the phone rings and over the course of several minutes her calm world is turned upside down. The craziness continues as her boyfriend is revealed outside of her swimming pool and is then gutted in front of her.
I feel that this scene is so powerful as Drew Barrymore portrays her character at the beginning of the scene in a relaxed, calm and natural manner. She doesn’t know what is about to happen to her. This calm approach to the scene is what gives the ending such a powerful and lasting sensation. I remember walking out of the theater and while the entire movie was quite scary and interesting, is was this first scene that truly stuck out – and it is because Drew used the calm before the gory storm to her full advantage.