The Evolution and Influence of Women in the Horror Genre
- pia kabott
- 18. Jan. 2024
- 11 Min. Lesezeit
Aktualisiert: 22. Jan. 2024
The horror genre has long been a space dominated by tales of terror, suspense, and the supernatural. While historically male-centric, the landscape of horror cinema has undergone a transformative shift over the decades, with women emerging as powerful figures both on and off the screen. Trying to delve into this often highly under stereotypes and tropes suffering genre the role of women in horror, had to undergo a long evolution to gain proper representation. This blog examines the challenges they have faced, and the impact they have had on shaping the genre. From the earliest scream queens to modern directors and writers, women have played pivotal roles in defining and redefining the boundaries of horror.
Over the course of horror cinema's evolution, women have undergone a transformative shift in their roles, evolving from historical portrayals as victims or damsels in distress to becoming powerful and multifaceted figures in the genre. The emergence of the "final girl" archetype marked a pivotal moment, challenging traditional stereotypes and establishing women as resilient protagonists capable of triumphing over adversity. Women in horror have not only influenced and subverted traditional tropes but have also played a central role in shaping the genre into a dynamic space that celebrates the strength, complexity, and empowerment of female characters.
Scream Queens and Damsels in distress
In the early days of horror cinema, particularly during the golden age of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s, women were often relegated to the roles of damsels in distress or scream queens. These characters were frequently victimized, serving as the helpless counterparts to the male protagonists. Fay Wray's portrayal of Ann Darrow in the 1933 film "King Kong" stands as an iconic example of the historical archetype of women as victims and damsels in distress in horror cinema. In this classic monster movie directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack, Wray's character becomes the central figure in a narrative driven by the monstrous fascination of the giant ape, King Kong.
Her character is consistently portrayed as a figure in need of rescue, reinforcing the conventional gender roles prevalent in early Hollywood cinema. The most iconic scene in "King Kong" is the climactic sequence in which Kong climbs the Empire State Building while holding Ann in his hand. This moment epitomizes the archetype of a woman in imminent danger, awaiting rescue by the male hero. Ann's vulnerability is emphasized as she screams for help while being at the mercy of the colossal and monstrous creature.
While these roles perpetuated stereotypes and limited the agency of female characters, they also laid the foundation for the evolution to come. Actresses like Elsa Lanchester, who portrayed The Bride in "Bride of Frankenstein" (1935), began to inject more complexity into their characters, challenging the traditional narratives of female vulnerability. In "Bride of Frankenstein," Elsa Lanchester's character, The Bride, is a unique creation that begins to slightly defy traditional gender roles for the first time. Unlike Ann Darrow, who is the victim in need of rescue, The Bride is not a passive character but a macabre counterpart to the male monster. Her existence challenges notions of conventional femininity and the idea of women as helpless beings awaiting salvation. The Bride's creation scene is particularly iconic, showcasing the fusion of horror and beauty. Her hissing rejection of the Monster, and subsequently her iconic scream, marks a departure from the traditional role of women in distress. Instead of being a victim, The Bride becomes a symbol of rejection and defiance, representing an assertion of agency and autonomy.
Women's Metamorphosis in Horror Cinema
During the 1960s and 1970s, two landmark horror films, "Psycho" (1960) and "The Exorcist" (1973), played pivotal roles in reshaping the representation of women in the genre. Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" subverted expectations with Janet Leigh's portrayal of Marion Crane. In the early part of the film, Marion Crane is introduced as a relatable character, struggling with real-world issues such as financial difficulties. When she steals a significant sum of money and becomes the film's apparent protagonist, audiences might have expected a typical narrative where she either successfully escapes or is eventually rescued from her predicament. In the iconic shower scene however, Leigh's character, meets an abrupt and shocking demise, challenging traditional narrative norms. This twist was a revolutionary move in horror cinema, as it not only defied genre conventions but also challenged the audience's assumptions about the safety of main characters. The killing off of a character like Marion Crane, who seemed poised to carry the narrative, created a growing sense of unpredictability and tension, making Marion Crane defy the damsel in distress archetype.
On the other hand, the sudden demise of the film's protagonist halfway throughout the film also reinforces the notion that female characters, even when defying expectations, can still be disposable in the narrative. This perpetuates the trope of punishing women who deviate from societal norms, using violence as a means of retribution.
In contrast, William Friedkin's "The Exorcist" presented Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil, a mother faced with the demonic possession of her daughter. Burstyn's performance brought emotional depth to the film, portraying a mother's desperate struggle against supernatural forces. Unlike the victimized portrayals of many female characters in earlier horror films, Burstyn's character demonstrated resilience. While her character showcases maternal strength, the film also delves into the sensationalization of demonic possession and its impact on a woman's role as a mother. The portrayal of Regan, possessed by a malevolent force, adds another layer of complexity."The Exorcist" marked a departure from the traditional representation of women in horror by placing a mother at the forefront, navigating the horrors unleashed upon her family.
Additionally, Shelley Duvall's portrayal of Wendy Torrance in "The Shining" is a haunting depiction of a woman grappling with both the supernatural and the psychological horrors unleashed within the walls of the Overlook Hotel. Duvall's performance is marked by its authenticity, capturing the genuine terror and vulnerability of her character as she faces the escalating madness surrounding her. Wendy is not merely a passive victim; she evolves into a figure of maternal strength, desperately shielding her son from the spiraling chaos. Duvall's nuanced portrayal contributes to the film's unsettling atmosphere and establishes Wendy Torrance as a memorable character in the horror genre.
However, behind the scenes, Duvall faced an arduous and emotionally taxing experience working with the meticulous director Stanley Kubrick. Kubrick, known for his perfectionism, subjected Duvall to relentless and demanding filming conditions. The director aimed to evoke genuine fear from his actress, often requiring numerous takes of intense and emotionally charged scenes. Duvall's performance, while undeniably powerful, came at a significant personal cost. Reports from the set suggest that Kubrick was not always empathetic to Duvall's well-being. Critics point out that the director's treatment of her, such as isolating her from the rest of the cast and crew, could be seen as a power dynamic that might be influenced by gender, showing that the oppression of women is not only a problem on screen. The director's relentless pursuit of realism in capturing Wendy's distress became a source of controversy, highlighting the ethical considerations of extracting genuine anguish from actors.
The Rise of the Final Girl
The 1970s and 1980s saw a significant shift in the portrayal of women in horror, marked by the emergence of the "final girl" trope. Coined by Carol J. Clover in her 1992 book "Men, Women, and Chainsaws," the final girl is the last character standing and often the one who confronts the antagonist in a climactic showdown. Jamie Lee Curtis's portrayal of Laurie Strode in John Carpenter's "Halloween" (1978) is a prime example of the final girl archetype. Laurie is not only a survivor but also a resilient and resourceful character, challenging the notion of women as mere victims in horror narratives.
Laurie Strode is a high school student who becomes the primary target of the relentless and seemingly unstoppable killer, Michael Myers. The brilliance of Curtis's portrayal lies in Laurie's transformation from a seemingly ordinary teenager into a resourceful survivor.
Throughout the film, Laurie is portrayed as intelligent, and responsible, qualities that set her apart from the typical horror film victim. She babysits children on Halloween night, symbolizing her nurturing and protective nature. As the story unfolds, Laurie becomes increasingly aware of the danger posed by Michael Myers, and her survival instincts kick in. The final confrontation between Laurie and Michael becomes a climactic battle, where Laurie transforms from a vulnerable victim into a determined and fierce adversary.
The 1980s also marked a pivotal era for women in horror behind the camera, with directors and writers challenging the entrenched male-dominated narrative structures. Mary Lambert emerged as a trailblazer during this period, making significant strides with her directorial work, particularly in the adaptation of Stephen King's "Pet Sematary" (1989). Lambert's contribution to the horror genre extended beyond breaking gender barriers; it encompassed a willingness to delve into dark and unsettling themes, challenging the preconceived notions of what horror direction could entail.
"Pet Sematary" was a significant project for Lambert, not only because it was a major studio horror film but also because it tackled profound and disturbing subject matter. The film explores the devastating consequences of grief and loss, as well as the moral ambiguity surrounding the resurrection of the dead. Lambert's directorial choices in navigating these complex themes showcased a fearlessness that went beyond gender expectations. Her film was unafraid to confront the darker aspects of human emotions, pushing the boundaries of horror storytelling.
Lambert's role as a female director in the horror genre was groundbreaking in an industry where women were historically underrepresented in leadership positions. By helming a major studio horror film, she shattered stereotypes and demonstrated that women could excel in directing films that required a keen understanding of tension, fear, and the macabre.
Women's reign in 90´s Horror
The 1990s witnessed a continued surge in women's influence on horror cinema, both in front of and behind the camera, pushing the boundaries of the genre in unprecedented ways. Among the standout films of this era is "Misery" (1990), directed by Rob Reiner and based on Stephen King's novel. While not directed by a woman, the film is anchored by a powerhouse performance from Kathy Bates as Annie Wilkes. Bates's portrayal of Annie, a seemingly benign fan who turns into a terrifying captor, earned her an Academy Award and exemplified the potential for women to embody complex and formidable characters in the horror genre. The film's exploration of obsession, isolation, and the blurred lines between fandom and horror showcased the ability of women to dominate the screen with both vulnerability and menace.
Annie Wilkes has become an iconic character in horror history, with Bates's performance often cited as one of the most memorable in the genre. The character's catchphrase, "I'm your biggest fan," has entered popular culture, solidifying Annie's place in the pantheon of horror antagonists. The success of "Misery" opened doors for more complex and empowered portrayals of women in horror, paving the way for future female characters who could be both captivating and terrifying.
In parallel, the 1990s marked the emergence of a groundbreaking franchise that not only reinvigorated the slasher subgenre but also subverted established horror tropes. Wes Craven's "Scream" (1996) revolutionized horror by blending self-awareness with genuine scares. The film's protagonist, Sidney Prescott, portrayed by Neve Campbell, reinvigorated the final girl trope. Sidney is not merely a survivor but an active participant in her own narrative, challenging and subverting the expectations associated with the traditional horror heroine. "Scream" commented on the very conventions it employed, creating a meta-narrative that resonated with audiences. Neve Campbell's Sidney became an iconic character, emblematic of the 90s era, where women in horror were not just surviving the horrors around them but actively shaping and deconstructing the genre itself.
New Horizons of the 21st Century
As we entered the 21st century, women continued to break new ground in horror, both as filmmakers and as protagonists. "The Conjuring" (2013), directed by James Wan, stands as a notable example of the genre's evolution. While Wan directed the film, the narrative centers around real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, respectively. Farmiga's performance as Lorraine Warren added depth and gravitas to the film. Lorraine is not merely a supporting character but an integral part of the narrative, showcasing a strong, empathetic, and intuitive female character. "The Conjuring" became a critical and commercial success, and Vera Farmiga's portrayal contributed to a shift in the genre, emphasizing that women could lead horror narratives with authority and conviction.
Ari Aster's films, particularly "Hereditary" (2018) and "Midsommar" (2019), exemplify a new wave of horror that explores psychological depths and emotional complexities. Toni Collette's performance in "Hereditary" as Annie, a mother dealing with a family's dark legacy, garnered widespread acclaim. Aster's storytelling, coupled with Collette's nuanced portrayal, elevated the horror genre by delving into intricate family dynamics and the haunting legacy of trauma. Similarly, "Midsommar" features Florence Pugh as the lead, navigating a surreal and disturbing communal experience. Aster's films showcase a departure from traditional horror tropes, inviting audiences to grapple with profound emotional and psychological themes, while also highlighting the strength and vulnerability of female characters.
Additionally, the commune in "Midsommar" operates as a microcosm of a matriarchal society, disrupting conventional power dynamics. The Hårga community is led by a matriarchal figure, and the rituals they engage in challenge traditional gender roles and expectations. This inversion is particularly evident in the portrayal of the May Queen ceremony, where Dani becomes a central figure in a symbolic and unsettling cultural event.
Portrayal of Female Rage
"Carrie" (1976), directed by Brian De Palma and based on Stephen King's novel contributes significantly to the trope of the "crazy girl" in the horror genre. In "Carrie," Sissy Spacek portrays the titular character, Carrie White, a telekinetic high school student tormented by her peers and a fanatically religious mother. Carrie's descent into madness is fueled by the relentless bullying she endures and her struggle with a repressive upbringing. The film not only captures the horror of supernatural abilities gone awry but also explores the psychological toll of societal rejection on a young woman. Carrie's unleashed fury during the prom scene is iconic and has become a symbol of feminine rage in horror.
Ti West's movie "Pearl" (2022) has quickly reached an iconic status for similar reasons. Pearl, who is portrayed by rising star Mia Goth, is a young woman who lives on a farm with her strict German parents. The film is set during the 1920´s and is set around Pearl's decline into absolute madness, beginning to kill not only the animals on the farm, but also everyone else that enters the farm, including both her parents. Pearl is driven by her desire to escape this farm life and become a superstar, with which she justifies her killing spree. Despite Pearls behavior being unapologetic, she has become a female icon, as she is portrayed in such a raw and aggressive way that so far has been very atypical for female portrayals. Despite the killing, many women may also be able to empathize with the rage she carries within what makes her very similar to Carrie. Both can be classified as rare characters that are designed to be the centerpiece of a movie targeted solely towards the female perception of the world and dive deep into the psyche of such.
The Future of Horror is Female
The Horror Genre continues to fascinate wide audiences. Along with that, women are nowadays a quint-essential part of the Genre and some may say they are even dominating it. If we take a glimpse into the future, it seems as if the importance of females will only continue to rise throughout time. Newest films, such as "Talk to Me" (2022), "M3GAN" (2022), or the newest "Scream VI" (2023), all feature female protagonists in highly complex and powerful roles.
In addition to that, has the Netflix series "Wednesday" (2022) turned into the platforms most watched show. Jenna Ortega, who acts as Wednesday, portrays a seemingly emotionless "Freak" who is loved widely for her dark sense of humor and morbide tendencies. Wednesday Addams is a character that has been around for very long, but seems to really hit the nerve of time in this reimagined version. Ortega has rapidly risen to stardom, being considered as the future face of the Horror Genre. She not only played brilliantly in Wednesday, but is also part of the newest Scream movies, and played a role in the sequel movie of "Pearl", titled "X" (2022).
So it seems, that with a new star at its top and plenty beyond, women will continue to reign in the Genre of Horror where there are still plenty of stories to be told. It has been a far journey from the early days of Hollywood, to where we stand now, and women had to fight for everything that today stands to their name. But especially in this Genre it appears that women have an extremely significant standpoint. Tropes like the final girl, or the crazy girl, are still of high relevance and will continue to draw audiences to watch those movies and bring forth characters that reach iconic statuses, known beyond the films they are based in.
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