Exclusive Interview: Danny Boyle And Jodie Comer On The Enduring Relevance Of Horror In A Post-Covid World

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 21, 2025

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Exclusive Interview: Danny Boyle and Jodie Comer on the Enduring Relevance of Horror in a Post-Covid World

The world has changed. The COVID-19 pandemic irrevocably altered our lives, leaving an indelible mark on our collective psyche. But while the virus may have receded, its lingering anxieties remain. This is where horror, a genre often dismissed as mere escapism, finds a renewed and potent relevance. We sat down with acclaimed director Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, 28 Days Later) and powerhouse actress Jodie Comer (Killing Eve, Free Guy) to explore this fascinating intersection of fear, trauma, and the enduring power of horror in a post-pandemic world.

The Pandemic's Shadow: A Breeding Ground for Fear

"The pandemic amplified existing anxieties," Boyle begins, his voice thoughtful. "Isolation, uncertainty, the fragility of life – these are all themes horror has always explored. But now, they resonate on a deeply personal level for so many." The shared experience of global crisis, he argues, has created a fertile ground for horror's anxieties to take root. This isn't just about jump scares; it's about tapping into the primal fears that were heightened during the pandemic.

Comer, whose work often delves into complex characters facing intense pressure, agrees. "Horror allows us to confront our fears in a safe space," she explains. "It's a cathartic experience. By engaging with fictionalized terror, we can process our own anxieties and perhaps even gain a sense of control in a world that often feels chaotic." The shared trauma of the pandemic, she suggests, makes audiences more receptive to these narratives.

Beyond the Jumpscare: Horror's Evolving Landscape

The conversation quickly moves beyond simple definitions of the genre. Both Boyle and Comer emphasize the evolution of horror, moving away from purely visceral shock tactics to explore the psychological complexities of fear.

"It's about atmosphere, dread, the slow burn," Boyle notes, citing the influence of films like The Shining and The Babadook. "Modern horror is often more interested in exploring the internal landscape of the characters, their vulnerabilities, and their psychological breakdown under pressure."

This shift mirrors the changing cultural landscape. The pandemic forced a reckoning with mental health, highlighting the pervasive anxieties and traumas that many individuals experience. Horror, in its exploration of psychological fragility, offers a unique lens through which to examine these issues.

The Future of Fear: A Genre Reimagined

What does the future hold for horror in a post-Covid world? Both Boyle and Comer are optimistic. They believe the genre is poised for a period of creative flourishing, fueled by the collective experiences of the past few years.

• Increased focus on psychological horror: Expect to see more films that explore the inner lives of their characters, delving into themes of trauma, isolation, and societal anxieties.
• Exploration of new anxieties: The pandemic has introduced new fears, from pandemics themselves to technological threats and social upheaval. Horror is well-positioned to explore these evolving anxieties.
• Greater diversity and representation: The genre is becoming increasingly inclusive, offering diverse perspectives and challenging traditional tropes.

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the enduring relevance of horror? Share your favorite horror films and why they resonate with you in the comments below! Let's discuss the evolving landscape of fear in the post-pandemic world.