What Does it Say If You Love Scary Movies?

Some people watch movies to make them laugh. Some people watch movies to make them cry. What does it say if you like to watch scary movies alone in the dark? Nothing. Horror and suspense are popular genres. Just ask Steven King. The box office gross for horror movies in 2006 was $553,225,008. (www.thenumbers.com) This exceeded the box office gross for romantic comedies by over $200 million dollars. So what is it about scary movies that make them so popular?

People who watch horror movies enjoy the thrill and excitement of being scared. It's no different from the thrill many people experience riding a roller coaster, racing a car, skydiving or downhill skiing. A good scary movie can make you feel alive. I know a scary movie is good if it makes me look over my shoulder and jump at my own reflection in the mirror.

Scary movie lovers have a firm grasp on reality. Contrary to what others may think, we don't believe in monsters, vampires, werewolves or zombies. We don't wish we were one or even hope to encounter one. Watching a scary movie is just a nice way to escape the problems of everyday life. It's a great contrast for a parent who's just spent all day watching Barney!

As an adult, why would you not be able to watch a scary movie? Do you really believe there is anything to be afraid of? How can you teach you children not to be afraid of imaginary things if you are terrified of them yourself? Do you scream in fright from a spider on you windowsill or just grab a tissue and dispose of it? Having a fearless attitude is a great attribute. Courageous people get far in life today and fear stops many people from achieving their full potential.

Scary movies are never dull. Even a grade B horror movie can make you laugh or keep you on your toes. They are shocking, humorous, imaginative and loaded with special effects. A good horror movie is quick paced and keeps you entertained until the very end.

A love of scary movies is something you are born with. It is not something that can easily be acquired by forcing yourself to view them. You can usually tell if a child will grow up to like scary movies by the attitudes and thrills they enjoy as a child. If you have to watch a scary movie hiding your face behind a blanket and clutching your partner for dear life, stick with comedy. You just don't have what it takes to fully appreciate this genre.