28 Years On: Boyle And Comer On The Enduring Relevance Of Horror In A Covid-Shaped World

Michael

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Post on Jun 21, 2025

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28 Years On: Boyle and Comer on the Enduring Relevance of Horror in a Covid-Shaped World

The chilling strains of a Bernard Herrmann score. A shadowy figure lurking in the periphery. The visceral jolt of unexpected terror. Horror, a genre often dismissed as mere escapism, has proven its enduring relevance, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty-eight years after Danny Boyle's groundbreaking Trainspotting redefined British cinema, the conversation around horror's enduring power continues, particularly with the rise of new talent like Phoebe Waller-Bridge and the continued influence of masters like Guillermo del Toro. But what makes horror so impactful, and how has a world shaped by a global pandemic amplified its resonance? We spoke to industry experts to find out.

The Pandemic's Shadow: Amplifying Existential Fears

The COVID-19 pandemic irrevocably altered the global landscape, leaving behind a trail of anxieties and uncertainties. The fear of the unseen, the vulnerability of the human body, and the constant threat of the unknown – all core themes within the horror genre – were brutally amplified during lockdown and the ongoing aftermath. This heightened awareness of mortality and societal fragility contributed to a surge in horror's popularity, proving that the genre serves as a powerful means of processing collective trauma. A Quiet Place, for example, released just before the pandemic's peak, resonated deeply with audiences grappling with the anxieties of silence and isolation.

Beyond Jumpscares: The Psychological Depth of Horror

While jump scares undoubtedly have their place, the most effective horror goes far beyond cheap thrills. The truly impactful horror films explore deeper psychological themes: the fragility of sanity, the insidious nature of fear, and the dark corners of the human psyche. This nuanced approach to the genre allows for a richer and more meaningful engagement with the audience. The work of Ari Aster, for example, delves into these complex themes with disturbing precision in films like Hereditary and Midsommar. These films aren't just about monsters; they're about the monsters within us.

Boyle's Legacy and Comer's Ascent: A New Generation of Horror

Danny Boyle's influence on modern filmmaking is undeniable, and while Trainspotting wasn't strictly horror, its unflinching portrayal of gritty reality and its exploration of societal undercurrents paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers willing to push boundaries and tackle difficult subjects. This legacy is visible in the work of actors like Jodie Comer, whose versatility allows her to explore the spectrum of human emotion, even in the context of horror. The intersection of psychological thriller and horror is a particularly fertile ground for Comer's talent, showing the continuing evolution of the genre.

The Future of Fear: Horror's Evolving Landscape

The future of horror looks bright, with both established and emerging filmmakers continuing to innovate and experiment. From the social commentary of Jordan Peele's Get Out and Us to the cosmic dread of films like Annihilation, horror continues to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing anxieties and fears of society. As the world grapples with new challenges, the genre will undoubtedly continue to adapt and offer both catharsis and a chillingly accurate reflection of the human condition.

What are your thoughts on the enduring relevance of horror? Share your favorite horror films in the comments below!