Color Psychology in Horror Films

3D Animation:

Color Psychology in Horror Films

This thesis explores the power of color psychology in horror films by utilizing 3D animation created with Unreal Engine.

Through this project, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of how color influences the viewer’s psychological experience of horror films. Discover more about this fascinating project and its implications in horror films.

Final result & Breakthrough

The aim of the project is to create visual representations that highlight how color can influence the mood and ambiance of a scene.

To explain why people enjoy watching horror films, begin in the living room with the theme of the spot where you generally watch movies on television.

An apple can be used to illustrate the concepts of content and visual elements in horror films. The apple's outline represents the content, the core story or theme. When the apple is filled with color, it symbolizes the visual elements that bring the story to life and influence the viewer's psychology.

For instance, a red apple suggests it is ripe and tempting, akin to suspense building in a film. Conversely, a blue apple implies decay and distaste, similar to the unsettling visuals in horror that evoke fear or disgust.

Then split each area into six colors (primary colors Red, Yellow, and Blue, and secondary colors Green, Orange, and Purple).

Each hue will symbolize a different room. Each chamber is named after a moment from the film that represents that hue. Included is information about the color's significance and how to apply it.

Red is frequently associated with strong emotions, both positive and negative. It can represent love, passion, and excitement, but it can also represent wrath, fury, and worry.
“Red room” concept from the movie “Silent hill” (2006)

Blue is commonly associated with tranquility and sadness. Many crime dramas utilize a blue tint to create a washed-out and gloomy atmosphere.
“Blue room” concept from the movie “Saw” (2004)

While green is a lush and peaceful hue in nature, it is often associated with negative connotations for humans, such as infections, diseases, and illnesses.
“Greenroom” concept from the movie “The Ring” (2002)

Orange is purported to represent danger, warning, and caution, which can evoke anxiety and nervousness in viewers.
“Orange room” concept from the movie “Hereditary” (2018)

Yellow is both soothing and frightening. This color has also been associated with fear, illness, and betrayal in a lot of films.
“Yellow room” concept from the movie “Alien” (1992)

Having something so strange and beyond our understanding be represented by a fascinating and mysterious purple.
“Purple room” concept from the movie “The Thing” (1982)

Thank you for watching :D