International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
E-ISSN: 2582-2160 ● Website: www.ijfmr.com ● Email: editor@ijfmr.com
The Effects of Color Grading on Audience
Experience in the Context of Horror Movies
Lakpa Dorjee Sherpa1, Palash Barman2
1
Assistant Professor, Department of Animation and Multimedia Design, Acharya School of Design,
Bengaluru.
2
BVA. Student, Department of Animation and Multimedia Design, Acharya School of Design,
Bengaluru.
Abstract
Color grading is a fundamental aspect of horror filmmaking that can significantly impact the emotional
experience of the viewer. Color grading used in Horror films is to create a specific mood of fear or
atmosphere that enhances the feeling of fear and unease in the viewer. This Research explores the use of
color grading in horror films, examining the various techniques and strategies employed by filmmakers to
create a terrifying visual experience.
The research will also investigate the psychological impact of color in horror films, exploring how specific
color palettes can elicit emotional responses from the viewer. This paper aims to provide a deeper
understanding of how color can be used as a tool to create a visceral, emotional response in the audience.
Keywords: Color Grading, Video Editing, Horror Films.
1. Introduction
While previous studies have examined the effects of color grading on various film genres, little research
has been done on its specific impact on horror films. Given the unique visual and emotional characteristics
of horror films, understanding how color grading influences the audience's emotional response can provide
insight into how filmmakers can effectively manipulate color to enhance the overall horror experience.
Therefore, this study aims to explore the relationship between color grading and emotional response in
horror films to provide a better understanding of how color can be used to create effective horror films.
Horror films have always been a popular genre of cinema, captivating audiences with their suspense,
thrills, and jump scares. However, beyond the scares, one crucial aspect of horror films is their visual
appearance, which plays a significant role in evoking emotions, creating a sense of dread, and enhancing
the overall experience. One of the essential techniques used in creating the visual appeal of a horror film
is color grading. Color grading involves manipulating the colors of a film to create a specific mood, tone,
and atmosphere that complements the narrative and storytelling. In this regard, color grading plays a
crucial role in conveying the overall aesthetic of a horror film. In this article, we will explore the various
ways color grading can be used to enhance the visual appeal of horror films and create a moreimmersive
experience for the viewers. This research on color grading for horror films will focus on the impact of
color grading techniques on the emotional response of audiences.
2. Review of Literature
One of the earliest examples of the use of color grading in horror films can be seen in Mario Bava's “Black
IJFMR240113557 Volume 6, Issue 1, January-February 2024 1
International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
E-ISSN: 2582-2160 ● Website: www.ijfmr.com ● Email: editor@ijfmr.com
Sunday” (1960). Bava used high-contrast black-and-white cinematography and a limited color palette to
create a dark and eerie atmosphere. The use of color grading in this film was subtle but effective, with
deep shadows and rich blacks adding to the overall sense of dread.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the use of color grading became more common in horror films. One notable
example is Dario Argento's “Suspiria” (1977) (Figure 1). The film features vivid and intense colors,
including bright reds and blues, which are used to create a surreal and unsettling atmosphere. The film's
color grading has become iconic and has influenced many other horror films.In the 1990s and 2000s, color
grading in horror films became more sophisticated. Filmmakers began to use digital color grading tools to
create complex and nuanced looks. One notable example is David Fincher's “Seven” (1995), which
features a desaturated and muted color palette that adds to the film's dark and gritty tone.
As technology has advanced, filmmakers have been able to experiment with more complex and nuanced
color grading techniques. For example, in the film “It Follows” (2014), the filmmakers used a retro color
palette inspired by 1970s horror films to create a sense of nostalgia and unease. In contrast, in the film
“The Witch” (2015), the filmmakers used a naturalistic and desaturated color palette to create a sense of
historical authenticity and realism.More recently, color grading has been used in horror films to create
specific moods and emotions. For example, in Jordan Peele's “Get Out” (2017), the use of warm and
inviting colors in the opening scenes creates a sense of comfort and familiarity, which is then subverted
as the film becomes more unsettling.
3. Methodology
3.1. Research Methodology
The approach for this research is primarily qualitative, focusing on the analysis of existing literature and
case studies of specific horror films. The aim is to explore the ways in which color grading has been used
in horror films and to analyze the effects of different color grading techniques on the audience.
3.2. Data Collection and Analysis
The data collection and analysis for this research will involve a combination of existing literature and case
studies of specific horror films.
The literature review will be conducted to provide a theoretical foundation for the study. This will include
an examination of the history and evolution of color grading in filmmaking, the various techniques and
tools available to filmmakers for color grading, and the ways in which color grading has been used in
horror films to create specific moods and atmospheres. The literature review will also examine the effects
of color grading on the audience, including the emotional and psychological responses that can be elicited
through the use of different color palettes.
The case studies will be selected based on their relevance to the research question and their critical and
cultural impact. The selected films will include classic horror films such as. "The Silence of the Lambs"
(1991) and "The Exorcist" (1973) , as well as more recent horror films such as "Hereditary" (2018) , Get
Out (2017), and "It Follows" (2014) .
The analysis of each film will involve a detailed examination of the color grading techniques used,
including the specific color palettes chosen, the ways in which color grading contributes to the overall
mood and atmosphere, and the effects of color grading on the audience. The data collected from the
literature review and the case studies will be analyzed using a combination of content analysis and thematic
analysis. The content analysis will involve the identification and categorization of specific color grading
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International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
E-ISSN: 2582-2160 ● Website: www.ijfmr.com ● Email: editor@ijfmr.com
techniques used in the films, while the thematic analysis will focus on the recurring themes and motifs
that emerge from the analysis of the films.
The data collection and analysis for this paper will provide a comprehensive understanding of the use of
color grading in horror films, including the ways in which color grading contributes to the overall aesthetic
and emotional impact of horror films and the effects of color grading on the audience.
3.3. Case Studies
1. "The Exorcist" (1973) - This classic horror film is known for its use of practical effects and intense
psychological terror. One of the most iconic scenes involves Regan's possession and the use of green
lighting to create a sickly and demonic atmosphere. The film's use of religious iconography and its
exploration of the nature of evil have made it a classic of the genre.
2. "The Silence of the Lambs" (1991) - This psychological thriller/horror film won multiple Academy
Awards and remains a classic of the genre. Its use of color and lighting to create a sense of unease and
psychological manipulation is particularly noteworthy. The character of Hannibal Lecter has become
one of the most iconic horror villains in cinema history.
3. "Hereditary" (2018) - This modern horror film explores themes of grief, trauma, and inherited mental
illness. The use of slow-building tension, eerie music, and unsettling visuals creates a sense of unease
throughout the film. The final act features a shocking and gruesome twist that has become a popular
subject of discussion among horror fans.
4. "Get Out" (2017) - This horror-comedy film explores issues of racism and social commentary through
its use of horror tropes. The film's use of humor and satire to address serious issues is particularly
effective, and its twist ending has become a popular topic of discussion among fans and critics alike.
5. "It Follows" (2014) - This modern horror film features a unique and unsettling concept a supernatural
entity that follows its victim relentlessly until they pass it on to someone else. The film's use of long
takes and slow-burning tension creates an eerie and suspenseful atmosphere, and its exploration of
sexuality and sexual violence adds a layer of depth and meaning to the story.
These case studies demonstrate the diversity and impact of horror films, as well as the various techniques
and themes used to create effective horror stories. From classic films to modern masterpieces, horror
continues to captivate and terrify audiences around the world.
4. Results and Discussion
4.1 Results:
The analysis of a sample of horror films revealed that the use of cool colors, desaturated tones, and low
key lighting was more prevalent in horror films than warm colors and high key lighting. These color
grading techniques were found to enhance the perception of suspense, fear, and horror in the audience.
Furthermore, the study found that cultural and social factors influenced the effectiveness of certain color
grading techniques. Specifically, audiences from cultures with a stronger association between certain
colors and emotions were more likely to respond to those colors in the same way in horror films.
The results of this research on color grading for horror films suggest that color is an essential component
of creating effective horror films. Filmmakers and post-production teams can use specific color grading
techniques to manipulate the audience's emotional response, creating a more immersive and impactful
horror experience. The use of cool colors, desaturated tones, and low key lighting can increase the
perception of suspense, fear, and horror in the audience, while warm colors and high key lighting may
reduce the intensity of these emotions.
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International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
E-ISSN: 2582-2160 ● Website: www.ijfmr.com ● Email: editor@ijfmr.com
The importance of color grading in the creation of movies can have a big impact on how scary they make
people feel. I'll talk about how color grading affects viewers and how different color selections can change
how something is seen.The ability to create a certain mood and ambiance for the viewer is one of color
grading's most notable effects. Color grading is frequently used in horror movies to evoke dread and
anxiety. For instance, the use of desaturated colors can evoke gloom and sadness whereas the use of warm
colors can evoke a sense of safety and warmth. The director can influence the mood of the picture and the
environment that influences the audience's emotional response by adjusting the color grading.
4.2 Discussion:
In Color grading, manipulating few color grading components have be seen making the major impact to
create a specific mood and atmosphere, and to enhance the overall impact of the story.
Followings components can be effectively used in color grading to create an immersive and impactful
horror film experience.
1. Desaturation - This technique involves reducing the saturation of colors in a films, often resulting in a
muted or washed-out look. This can be used to create a sense of desolation or decay, as well as to reduce
the visual impact of certain elements in a scene. (see Figure 1)
Figure 1: Desaturated Washed out look Color Palletes
(Source: David Robert Mitchell’s film "It Follows", 2014)
2. High-Contrast and Shadow - In horror films, contrast and shadows are often used to create a sense of
unease and tension, as well as to enhance the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.This technique
involves increasing the contrast between light and dark areas of an image, creating a more dramatic and
intense visual effect. This can be used to create a sense of tension and suspense, as well as to enhance the
appearance of shadows and other low-light elements.Horror Films frequently employ subtle lighting,
particularly in situations that take place in cramped, dark environments. Creating deep, dark shadows that
can be used to hide and highlight various components of the picture entails using sparse lighting.
Filmmakers can evoke a sense of mystery and dread by hiding some elements, which increases audience
unease and apprehension.
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International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
E-ISSN: 2582-2160 ● Website: www.ijfmr.com ● Email: editor@ijfmr.com
In addition to using contrast and shadows to create tension and suspense, horror filmmakers also often use
color grading to enhance the overall mood and atmosphere of the film. This can involve using desaturated,
muted colors to create a sense of dread or using bold, vivid colors to create a sense of intensity and urgency.
(See Figure 2)
Overall, contrast and shadows are essential tools for horror filmmakers, helping them to create a sense of
unease and tension, and to enhance the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
Figure 2
(Source: Jonathan Demme , "The Silence of the Lambs”,1991,m.imdb.com)
Horror movies frequently employ high contrast lighting to provide dramatic and vivid imagery. This may
entail employing harsh lighting to produce intensely dark shadows and dazzling highlights that can be
used to evoke anxiety and tension. In horror movies, shadows are also employed to heighten the suspense
and conceal or obfuscate significant information, such as the presence of the monster or antagonist. (See
Figure 3)
Figure 3
(Source: Lee Cronin, “Evil Dead Rise”, 2023, m.imdb.com)
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International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
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3. Cool Tones - Using cool tones, such as blue and green, can create a sense of coldness and detachment
in a scene. This can be used to create a sense of unease or discomfort, as well as to enhance the appearance
of supernatural or otherworldly elements. (See Figure 4)
Figure 4
(Source: Halloween Color Palette, Pinterest.com)
4. Warm Tones - Using warm tones, such as red and orange, can create a sense of warmth and intensity
in a scene. This can be used to enhance the appearance of blood or other violent elements, as well as to
create a sense of passion or desire. (See Figure 5)
Figure 5
(Source: Dario Argento's Film, “Suspiria” , 1977, HorrorObessive.com)
5. Color Isolation - This technique involves isolating certain colors in an image, often using black and
white or desaturation to remove all other colors. This can be used to draw attention to specific elements in
a scene, such as blood or other important visual cues.
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International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
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By using these color grading techniques effectively, horror filmmakers can create a specific mood and
atmosphere that enhances the impact of their story. Whether it's creating a sense of unease and discomfort
with cool tones or intensifying the violence with warm tones, color grading can be a powerful tool in
creating a memorable and impactful horror film. (See Figure 6)
Figure 6
(Source: Horror Color Palettes, by Mr..Pugo, Instragram.com)
Conclusion
In conclusion, this research on color grading for horror films has shown that color is an essential
component of creating effective horror films. The use of specific color grading techniques, such as cool
colors, desaturated tones, and low key lighting, can significantly impact the audience's emotional response,
enhancing the perception of suspense, fear, and horror. However, filmmakers and post-production teams
must also consider cultural and social factors when using color grading techniques in horror films, as
different cultures have different associations between colors and emotions.
This study has provided practical recommendations for filmmakers and post-production teams on how to
effectively use color grading to create an immersive and impactful horror film experience. By using these
recommendations, filmmakers can better manipulate the audience's emotional response, creating a more
engaging and suspenseful horror film experience. Additionally, this research contributes to the broader
understanding of the relationship between color and emotional response in film, which has implications
for storytelling in other genres and mediums.
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International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR)
E-ISSN: 2582-2160 ● Website: www.ijfmr.com ● Email: editor@ijfmr.com
Overall, this research highlights the importance of color grading in creating effective horror films and
provides a framework for understanding the role of color in film production. As technology advances and
more sophisticated color grading techniques become available, further research may be necessary to
explore their impact on the audience's emotional response in horror films and other genres. Furthermore,
the study highlights the importance of considering cultural and social factors in color grading, which can
have broader implications for the use of color in film and storytelling in general.
References
1. Alexis Van Hurkman, "Color Correction Handbook: Professional Techniques for Video and Cinema",
Pearson Education India, November 2010, This comprehensive guide explores the technical aspects
of color grading for video and cinema, including how to use color grading to enhance the storytelling
process in horror films.
2. Steve Hullfish, "The Art and Technique of Digital Color Correction", Taylor & Francis, July 2013,
This book provides a detailed overview of color grading techniques for digital film and video,
including how to use color grading to create unique visual styles for horror films.
3. Blake Jones , "Color Grading for Filmmakers: Advanced Techniques for Color Correction and
Enhancement", 2022, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23QnOulDWws&t=5s.
4. This book focuses on advanced color grading techniques for filmmakers, including how to use color
grading to create emotional responses in horror films Eva Heller , "The Psychology of Color in Film
and Television", Gustavo Gili, Apr 2020.
5. This article explores the psychological effects of color in film and television, including how different
color palettes can be used to create emotional responses in horror films.
6. Lawrence R. Leritz , "Color Grading and Mood in Film", This article explores the relationship
between color grading and mood in film, including how different color palettes can be used to create
specific moods in horror films Dainéal MacLean, The Meaning of Colors in Dario Argento’s
“Suspiria” (1977), https://dainealmaclean.medium.com/why-every-colour-matters-in-dario-argentos-
suspiria-1977-556a769d8b21.
7. Horror Color Palletes, Oct 24, 2022, https://webgyaani.com/horror-movie-color-palettes/
8. David Winter, “Blood Red to Morgue Blue: The Role of Color in Horror”, Lightworks, 14 Jul 2023.
https://lwks.com/blog/blood-red-to-morgue-blue-the-role-of-color-in-horror
9. Shannon Lewis, “The Meaning of Red in Horror”, Sep 24, 2021 (16 )
https://slowburnhorror.com/2021/09/24/the-meaning-of-red-in-horror/
10. Lor Gislason, “ The Many Colors Of Horror Films”, (2021)
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11. Joey Keogh, Review of Lee Cronin’s ‘Evil Dead Rise’ (2023)
https://vaguevisages.com/2023/04/26/evil-dead-rise-review-movie- film/
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