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, ASC; John 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.