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As a Malaysian film student I have had access to some of the best Asian Horror has to offer. Let it be known that I myself, have a moderate fascination for the horror genre, I have been spellbound, terrified and scarred by the contemporary offerings of A24, a production company that I feel has redefined horror cinema through its unique approach to films and the unprecedented freedom they grant filmmakers. With a penchant for taking risks and pushing boundaries, A24 has delivered a slew of unique, flawed, and cinematic horror films that leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. In this blog post, I am excited to explore the distinct qualities that set A24's horror films apart, delving into their uniqueness, acknowledging their imperfections, and celebrating their cinematic brilliance.
Toni Collette in Hereditary (2018).
One of the defining features of A24's horror films is their original and audacious storytelling. From Hereditary (2018) to The Witch (2015) and Midsommar (2019), these films transcend conventional horror tropes, delivering narratives that are as thought-provoking as they are terrifying. A24 dares to delve into the darkest corners of the human psyche, crafting stories that explore complex themes such as grief, family dynamics, and the human condition. This willingness to experiment with unconventional concepts sets A24's horror films apart from mainstream offerings, ensuring a memorable and intellectually stimulating viewing experience.
Florence Pugh in Ari Aster's film, Midsommar (2019).
A24's horror films stand out for their flawed and realistic characters, whose struggles and vulnerabilities resonate deeply with the audience. Unlike traditional horror flicks that rely on clichéd archetypes, A24 presents us with three-dimensional individuals, complete with their virtues and vices. This emphasis on authentic human experiences elevates the horror element, making the terror more relatable and emotionally impactful. We become invested in the characters' journeys, and their fears become our own, leaving us haunted long after the credits roll.
Anya Taylor-Joy in The Witch (2015) directed by Robbert Eggers.
A hallmark of A24's horror films lies in their mastery of creating unsettling atmospheres. Through evocative cinematography, deliberate pacing, and haunting scores, the films engross us in a palpable sense of dread. The company's commitment to cinematic excellence is evident in each frame, immersing the audience in a surreal and nightmarish realm. These atmospheric choices heighten the emotional experience, leaving us on the edge of our seats and amplifying the fear factor.
Barry Keoghan in The Killing of A Sacred Deer (2017) directed by Yorgos Lanthimos.
A24's horror films frequently subvert genre expectations, delivering narratives that leave viewers questioning their preconceptions about horror. Whether it's The Lighthouse (2019) with its hallucinatory descent into madness or It Comes at Night (2017) with its exploration of paranoia and trust, A24 challenges our perceptions of what constitutes a horror film. This willingness to defy conventions results in thought-provoking cinema that lingers in our minds long after we've left the cinema.
Mia Goth in Pearl (2022) directed by Ti West.
In the vein of classic horror films, A24 embraces ambiguity and intellectual depth in its narratives. The company doesn't always hand us neat resolutions, leaving room for interpretation and speculation. This approach invites audiences to engage with the films on a deeper level, discussing and dissecting the meanings behind the enigmatic conclusions. The willingness to embrace ambiguity elevates A24's horror films to thought-provoking works of art, sparking conversations that extend far beyond the screen.
A24's contemporary horror films have breathed new life into the genre, redefining it with their unique storytelling, flawed characters, and cinematic prowess. By daring to push boundaries and subvert expectations, A24 has crafted a lineup of horror gems that are as intellectually stimulating as they are terrifying. Although they may not be without their flaws, these films stand as powerful examples of horror cinema that leave a lasting impression on viewers. As a Malaysian film student, I am continually inspired by A24's commitment to originality and cinematic excellence, eagerly awaiting the next unsettling journey into the dark and haunting worlds they create.
Some recommendations for you:
1) Pearl (2022)
2) Hereditary (2019)
3) The Witch (2015)
4) Midsommar (2019)
5) Talk To Me (2023)
Enjoy this list and the other films featured in this blog post, because I can only do that once every two months. Thank you all for reading and supporting this blog, it means a lot to me. I'll see you guys in the next one, till then cheers!
PS: This was written at the request of a friend of mine, I hope you enjoyed this article man, I am now scarred once again haha!
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