Horror Cinematography: How Halloween Scares Audiences

Dean Cundey, ASC talks about using the anamorphic-widescreen frame to build tension through composition, and how long takes can immerse the audience and help create suspense. (7:20)

Referenced clip: Halloween (1978, Blu-ray, 1:14:22 – 1:16:42)

  1. Intro to the Genre
  2. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
  3. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Remake (2003)
  4. Halloween (1978): Opening Shot
  5. How Halloween Scares Audiences
  6. Megan is Missing (2011)
  7. American Horror Story (2012)
  8. Q&A

In front of a live audience, ASC members share their inspirations and experiences while analyzing scenes from their own work and offering an informative look at their decision-making process and collaborative spirit. Sessions are moderated by American Cinematographer associate editor Jon D. Witmer, and are followed by question-and-answer sessions with the audience.

Breakfast Club 2013 participants: Amelia Vincent, ASCJohn Bailey, ASC; and M. David Mullen, ASC. Clubhouse Conversation participants so far in 2013: ASC members Dean Cundey, Michael Goi and Daniel Pearl in conversation about horror cinematography; and ASC members Christopher Baffa, Patrick Cady and William Webb in conversation about shooting one-hour episodic series.