Peter Hutchings on Horror Film

Passionate about horror film and monsters? We have more resources for you, once again by one of our distinguished keynotes. Peter Hutchings is a Professor of Film Studies at Northumbria University and author of numerous books, articles, chapters, lectures, papers and projects concerning film, horror, monsters and numerous others. For example, his book The Horror Film considers the genre itself and the reasons behind its success with worldwide audiences, potential academic marginalization, controversies and difficulties in defining the genre itself. He explores various issues like vampires, serial killers, sounds, performances, race, class, gender, slashers and post-slashers and offers new perspectives on this fascinating genre. Another useful resource is his Historical Dictionary of Horror Cinema, which follows the evolution of horror film from the early 20th century to present day, offering us a glimpse into zombies, werewolves, vampires, ghosts as well as actors, artists, directors, make-up artists and numerous others whose visions helped shape horror film. If you are interested in his thoughts on genre, take a look at his article on Genre Theory and Criticism available online. Reflecting on his own work and his newest book in preparation on British horror, Hutchings has stated:
Presenting yourself as a specialist in horror has occasionally caused eyebrows to be raised. But for all the disreputability associated with it, horror has been a significant aspect of commercial film production since the 1930s and is an especially notable presence in British film history. Looking at horror with an unprejudiced eye reveals an area of creative activity that is vital and unpredictable and which raises important questions about cultural values and hierarchies.
He concludes by reflecting on horror as a genre, which he considers inexhaustible and ''one of the most internationalized of genres which can potentially shed light on contemporary debates about the globalization if culture''. If you are interested in this fascinating field of research, you might also enjoy his article Uncanny Landscapes in British Film and Television (open access!), where he discusses Britishness, abandoned landscapes, savage, pagan and ancient landscapes and numerous others! And finally, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to write to us!