SYSK’s Summer Movie Playlist: Josh and Chuck's List of Horror Movies that Changed the Genre
In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck explore influential horror movies that shaped both the genre and the broader film industry. The discussion covers early innovations like German expressionism in "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" and the introduction of splatter films with "Blood Feast," as well as genre-defining works like "Night of the Living Dead," which brought social commentary to zombie films.
The hosts examine how certain horror films transformed Hollywood's business practices, from "Jaws" establishing the summer blockbuster model to "The Exorcist" earning horror's first Best Picture Oscar nomination. They also analyze marketing innovations in horror, including "The Blair Witch Project's" pioneering use of found footage and "Scream's" self-referential approach to horror tropes.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jun 27, 2025 episode of the Stuff You Should Know
Sign up for Shortform to access the whole episode summary along with additional materials like counterarguments and context.
1-Page Summary
Pioneering Horror Subgenres and Techniques
"The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" (1920) introduced German expressionism to horror cinema, using distorted sets and stark shadows to create an unsettling atmosphere. This groundbreaking approach to visual storytelling set the standard for horror filmmaking techniques.
Herschel Gordon Lewis's "Blood Feast" (1963) shocked audiences as the first 'splatter' film, featuring unprecedented graphic violence and gore. Its commercial success established a new market for explicit horror content.
George Romero's "Night of the Living Dead" (1968) revolutionized the zombie genre with its casting of an African-American lead and its portrayal of zombies as flesh-eating creatures. The film's shocking ending, where authorities kill the hero, demonstrated horror's potential for social commentary.
Horror Movies That Fundamentally Changed the Film Industry
Steven Spielberg's "Jaws" (1975) transformed the film industry by pioneering the "summer blockbuster" model. Released simultaneously on 435 screens nationwide, it established new standards for marketing campaigns and opening weekend expectations.
"The Exorcist" (1973) elevated horror's status in cinema. William Friedkin's film became the first horror movie nominated for a Best Picture Oscar, proving the genre could be taken seriously as art while exploring complex themes like faith and intergenerational conflict.
Horror Movies That Innovated With Marketing/Presentation
"The Blair Witch Project" (1999) created the found footage genre through an innovative marketing campaign. As Chuck Bryant discusses, the film's website presented the story as genuine documentary footage, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
Wes Craven's "Scream" (1996) established meta-horror by deliberately exploring and subverting horror tropes through self-aware character discussions. The film's combination of irony, thrills, and its iconic mask created a cultural phenomenon that inspired numerous self-referential horror movies.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" was influential, it was not the only film to use German expressionist techniques, and other films from the same era also contributed to the visual language of horror.
- "Blood Feast" may have popularized the splatter genre, but it was not the sole originator of graphic violence in cinema; there were other films with explicit content before it.
- "Night of the Living Dead" was groundbreaking, but the zombie genre had been evolving with earlier films like "White Zombie" (1932), which could also be credited with contributing to the genre's development.
- "Jaws" was a significant factor in the creation of the summer blockbuster, but other films around that time, such as "Star Wars" (1977), also played a crucial role in shaping the blockbuster model.
- "The Exorcist" was indeed a milestone for horror at the Oscars, but it was not the only film to elevate the genre's status; earlier films like "Psycho" (1960) also garnered critical acclaim and Oscar nominations.
- "The Blair Witch Project" was innovative in its marketing, but it was not the first film to use the found footage technique; earlier examples include "Cannibal Holocaust" (1980), which also presented itself as real footage.
- "Scream" popularized meta-horror, but it was not the first film to comment on the horror genre; movies like "Peeping Tom" (1960) and "Wes Craven's New Nightmare" (1994) also had self-referential elements.
Actionables
- Explore the impact of groundbreaking films by creating a themed movie night that focuses on genre-defining horror movies. Invite friends or family over and watch a selection of films that have been influential in the horror genre, such as a German expressionist film, a splatter film, and a meta-horror film. Discuss the innovations each film brought to the genre and how they changed audience expectations.
- Develop a deeper appreciation for film history by writing a blog or social media posts that analyze the societal impact of iconic horror films. For example, you could write about how "Night of the Living Dead" addressed racial tensions or how "Jaws" influenced the summer blockbuster trend. Sharing your thoughts online can spark conversations and connect you with others interested in film history.
- Enhance your creative storytelling by experimenting with different narrative techniques inspired by pioneering horror films. If you enjoy writing or creating content, try your hand at a short story or video that uses elements like found footage, social commentary, or subversion of tropes. This exercise can help you understand the mechanics behind effective horror storytelling and might even kickstart a new hobby or creative project.
Related Shortform Content
Get access to the context and additional materials
Pioneering Horror Subgenres and Techniques
Pioneering horror films have shaped the genre by introducing new aesthetics, themes, and anxieties to audiences, setting the standard for what terrifies viewers. This podcast explores the groundbreaking movies that have each sparked their own subgenres within horror.
"Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) Pioneered German Expressionist Style, Using Distorted Sets, Shadows to Create an Ominous, Surreal Mood Influencing Later Horror Films"
Considered the first true horror film, "The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" introduced German expressionism into cinema, utilizing artificial and distorted set designs to create a surreal and unsettling mood.
Expressionist Visuals: Angled Sets and Stark Shadows Conveyed Madness and the Uncanny, Departing From Realism
The film's angled staircases, sharp, pointy elements in the environment, and stark use of shadows intentionally departed from the realist conventions of the time. The gestalt of these visuals aimed to evoke feelings of fear and madness, actively manipulating audiences' perceptions in a way that would become a staple in horror filmmaking.
Cabinet of Dr. Caligari: The First True Horror Film, Pioneering Unsettling Camera and Set Design Techniques
"The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" not only introduced the idea of sets and camera work to disturb audiences but also crafted a plot centered around a carnival sideshow director and his somnambulist accomplice to create a sense of dread. This approach to filmmaking was groundbreaking in its influence on horror storytelling.
"Blood Feast (1963): the First 'Splatter' Film Shocking Audiences With Unprecedented Graphic Violence"
"Blood Feast" emerged as the first 'splatter' film, notorious for its graphic on-screen violence. Directed by Herschel Gordon Lewis, the film stunned local censors and shocked audiences with its bold portrayal of gore.
Herschel Gordon Lewis Made a Horror Film to Push the Boundaries of On-screen Violence and Gore
Simon Abrams referred to "Blood Feast" as historically significant, showing violence such as brains on the ground and severed limbs. This film took audiences by surprise with its unflinching depiction of gore, carving out a new niche for explicit violence in cinema.
Blood Feast's Success Revealed the Splatter Subgenre's Commercial Potential and Inspired More Shocking and Gruesome Violence
The commercial success of "Blood Feast" laid the groundwork for an entire subgenre, inspiring a generation of special effects artists. Despite its modest budget, it garnered considerable profits, illustrating the market's hunger for gory content.
Night of the Living Dead (1968) Pioneered the Zombie Genre and Sub ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Pioneering Horror Subgenres and Techniques
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- "While 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' is often credited with pioneering German Expressionist style, it was not the first film to exhibit expressionist elements, as the movement had already begun in theatre and other art forms before being adapted to cinema."
- "The claim that 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' was the first true horror film can be contested, as there were earlier films with horror elements, such as Georges Méliès' 'Le Manoir du diable' (1896)."
- "The impact of 'Blood Feast' on the splatter subgenre is undeniable, but it's worth noting that the film was critically panned and its success may have been more due to its shock value than its cinematic quality."
- "The assertion that 'Night of the Living Dead' pioneered the zombie genre might overlook earlier works featuring zombies, such as 'White Zombie' (1932), although it did redefine the modern concept of zombies."
- "The casting of Duane Jones as the lead in 'Night of the Living Dead' was groundbreaking, but ...
Actionables
- Explore the impact of visual storytelling by creating a photo collage that uses angles and shadows to depict emotions. Start by taking photos of your surroundings, focusing on how different angles and lighting can change the mood. Then, arrange these photos into a collage that tells a story or conveys a particular feeling, such as unease or fear, without using any text.
- Experiment with subverting expectations in a short story or video. Write a short narrative or create a simple video where the ending goes against the typical conventions of the genre. For example, in a romance story, the main character might choose personal growth over a relationship, or in an adventure, the treasure might be a lesson learned rather than a physical object.
- Analyze the societal impact of media by hosting a movi ...
Related Shortform Content
Get access to the context and additional materials
Horror Movies That Fundamentally Changed the Film Industry
In the pantheon of cinema, certain horror films have left an indelible mark, not only scaring audiences but also reshaping the film industry itself.
Jaws (1975) Pioneered the "Summer Blockbuster" Model of Wide Release and Heavy Marketing
"Jaws," directed by Steven Spielberg, fundamentally changed theatrical releases and marketing strategies for the film industry.
Jaws Was the First Movie Released Nationwide On Hundreds of Screens, Breaking the Traditional Regional Rollout
Originally scheduled to shoot for 55 days, the production of "Jaws" ballooned to 159 days with a budget that grew from the initial $4 million to $12 million. This overrun was partly due to the difficulties Spielberg faced shooting on water and with the mechanical shark. Unlike most films of the time that gradually expanded from a few screens in major cities to wider regions over weeks, "Jaws" broke this pattern dramatically. It was released on 435 screens concurrently, making it the first film to do so and spawning the concept of the "summer blockbuster."
Marketing Campaigns and Emphasis on Opening Weekend Box Office Grosses Became Standard for Major Releases, Transforming the Film Industry
"Jaws” also set a trend for marketing expenditure, becoming the first film to invest heavily in its promotional campaigns. This strategic release and marketing approach showcased the profitability of a strong opening weekend, transforming expectations and practices for future film debuts. The film’s success demonstrated that the summer could be the most lucrative season for releasing major movies, which has since become a standard in the industry.
Exorcist (1973) Was the First Horror Film Nominated For Best Picture Oscar, Legitimizing the Genre
"The Exorcist," directed by William Friedkin and based on the book by William Peter Blatty, marked a significant milestone for horror films.
The Exorcist's Acclaim and $12 Million Success Proved Horror Films Could Be Serious Art
"The Exorcist" sold six million tickets in approximately two months and had a powerful impact on viewers; for instance, a woman in Boston had to be carried out of the theater just 20 minutes into the film. It faced both criticism and praise from religious authorities but ultimately led to conversations about faith and the na ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Horror Movies That Fundamentally Changed the Film Industry
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Strategic release in the context of the film industry involves carefully planning the timing and manner in which a movie is introduced to the audience to maximize its impact and commercial success. This includes decisions on when and how widely to distribute the film, as well as the marketing strategies employed to generate interest and ensure a strong opening weekend at the box office. Strategic release aims to create a favorable environment for the film's reception, often focusing on key factors like competition, audience demographics, and seasonal trends. It plays a crucial role in shaping the overall performance and longevity of a movie in the market.
- "Prestige" in the context of the film industry refers to the high regard, respect, and recognition a movie receives for its artistic quality, impact, and critical acclaim. This recognition elevates the film's status beyond mere entertainment, positioning it as a work of art that is esteemed and admired within the industry and by audiences. Prestige films often tackle complex themes, showcase exceptional craftsmanship, and garner prestigious awards and nominations, contributing to their reputation as significant and influential works in cinema. The term signifies a level of excellence and cultural significance that sets a film apart from more mainstream or commercial productions.
- Intergenerational conflict in the context of the horror movie "The Exorcist" represents the clash o ...
Counterarguments
- While "Jaws" popularized the summer blockbuster model, the concept of releasing films widely was not entirely new; it built upon existing trends and practices in film distribution.
- The success of "Jaws" and its marketing strategies might have been influenced by other factors, such as the novelty of its story and Spielberg's direction, rather than solely its release strategy and marketing.
- The impact of "The Exorcist" on legitimizing horror as a serious art form is significant, but it was not the only film to contribute to this shift; other films before and after also played a role in changing perceptions of the genre.
- The claim that "The Exorcist" aimed to scare America back to church is a specific interpretation that may not reflect the entire audience's reaction or the intentions of all those involved in the film's creation.
- The idea that "The Exorcist" fundamentally changed the industry could be seen as an overstatement, as the horror genre continued to evolve with contributions from numerous other films a ...
Related Shortform Content
Get access to the context and additional materials
Horror Movies That Innovated With Marketing/Presentation
Horror movies have not only terrified audiences but have also been at the forefront of innovative marketing and presentation techniques. Two films, "The Blair Witch Project" and "Scream," stand out for their groundbreaking approaches to engaging audiences and redefining the horror genre.
Blair Witch Project (1999) Pioneered "Found Footage" Genre Through Viral Marketing That Convinced Viewers the Events Were Real
Eduardo Sanchez and Daniel Myrick are credited with the invention of a truly ingenious campaign for "The Blair Witch Project." The film is recognized for establishing the found footage genre through a viral marketing campaign that convinced viewers of the film's authenticity.
Blair Witch Project Marketed As Genuine Documentary to Heighten Terror and Mystery
Chuck Bryant discusses how the film appeared as a genuine documentary, blurring the line between fiction and reality. By presenting the story as real on the official website, it led audiences to question whether the events had actually occurred. The inventive marketing strategy capitalizing on the found footage format helped to make the film's terror and mystery more compelling.
"Found Footage" Format Becomes Compelling Horror Subgenre Through Innovative Marketing Strategy
Josh Clark highlights how the idea that "The Blair Witch Project" was actual found footage added to the enjoyment, as people were ready to believe in the terrifying premise. Found footage or documentary-style horror movies existed before, but Blair Witch Project was seminal, presenting the storyline as if the footage was found from people who had disappeared. This innovative marketing strategy contributed significantly to the fresh and convincing nature of the subgenre at the time of release.
Scream (1996) Deconstructed Horror Tropes, Creating "Meta-Horror"
John Carpenter's "Halloween" is credited with birthing the slasher genre, but it was "Scream" that took a step further by deconstructing horror tropes and creating a new sub-genre known as "meta-horror."
Scream Explored Slasher Film Conventions Through Self-Aware, Meta-Textual Character Discussions of Horror Clichés
"Scream," originally titled "Scary Movie," became the highest-grossing slasher film of its time. The movie, directed by Wes Craven, constantly references horror movie tropes even as they're being played out in the plot. Although Craven’s "Wes Craven's New Nightmare" also dabbled in meta-horror, "Scream" hit a nerve with audiences and inspired other self-referential horror movies.
Film's Mix of Irony, Thrills, Iconic Mask, and Memorable Kills Became a Cultural and Commercial Hit, Inspiring Self-Referential Horror Movies
The film took by surprise when Drew Barrymore, who was origina ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Horror Movies That Innovated With Marketing/Presentation
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While "The Blair Witch Project" popularized the found footage genre, it was not the first to use this technique. Earlier films like "Cannibal Holocaust" (1980) also utilized a form of found footage, challenging the idea that "Blair Witch" was the pioneer.
- The marketing of "The Blair Witch Project" as a genuine documentary could be criticized for misleading audiences, as some viewers genuinely believed the events were real, which raises ethical questions about such marketing practices.
- The found footage genre, while innovative at the time, has been criticized for often resulting in lower production value and shaky camera work that can detract from the viewing experience for some audiences.
- "Scream" is often credited with creating meta-horror, but other films and directors, such as Joe Dante with "Gremlins 2" (1990), have also played with self-referential elements, suggesting that "Scream" was part of a broader trend rather than the sole innovator.
- The success of "Scream" and its self-aware approach led to a wave of imitators, some argue that this diluted the originality of the meta-horror concept and led to a series of less innovative horror films.
- The financial success of "Scream" might overshadow the contrib ...
Actionables
- You can create a buzz for your own projects by crafting a mysterious online persona or backstory. For instance, if you're an artist, develop a series of cryptic social media posts hinting at a secret project or alter ego that's behind your work. This can intrigue your audience and make them more invested in uncovering the "truth," much like the allure of a found footage film.
- Experiment with subverting expectations in your creative writing or storytelling by introducing a shocking twist early on. If you write short stories or create content, consider killing off a main character unexpectedly or changing the genre halfway through. This mirrors the unexpected early death of a main character in "Scream" and can engage your audience by defying conventional narrative structures.
- Use self-awareness to add depth to your hob ...
Related Shortform Content
Get access to the context and additional materials
Create Summaries for anything on the web
Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser
