Morris County’s Horror Film Boom: A Sign of Shifting Entertainment Landscapes?
A chilling trend is taking root in the entertainment industry, and it’s not just on the screen. The recent filming of Pete Davidson’s psychological thriller, “The Home,” in the abandoned Saint Francis Residential Community in Denville, Morris County, New Jersey, isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a growing pattern of filmmakers leveraging unique, often overlooked locations – and a specific type of unsettling atmosphere – to tap into a surging demand for psychological and atmospheric horror. This isn’t simply about finding a spooky backdrop; it’s a reflection of evolving audience preferences and a potential shift in how horror films are conceived and produced.
The Appeal of ‘Real’ Locations in Horror
For decades, horror has relied on constructed sets and fantastical landscapes. But audiences are increasingly drawn to authenticity. The use of the Saint Francis Residential Community, a former nursing home slated for demolition, immediately injects a layer of genuine unease into “The Home.” This isn’t a fabricated haunted house; it’s a place with a history, a past life, and a palpable sense of abandonment. This trend echoes the success of films like “The Blair Witch Project” (1999) and the found-footage subgenre, which capitalized on the illusion of realism. The power of a location like this lies in its inherent story – the lives lived within its walls, the memories it holds, and the decay that now defines it. This is a prime example of Morris County becoming a hotspot for horror productions.
Davidson and DeMonaco: A Rising Force in Genre Film
The involvement of Pete Davidson and James DeMonaco further amplifies this trend. Davidson’s recent foray into horror with “Bodies, Bodies, Bodies” (2022), which garnered an impressive 86% score on Rotten Tomatoes, demonstrates his willingness to explore darker roles and appeal to a broader audience. DeMonaco, the creator of “The Purge” franchise, is a master of social commentary through the lens of horror. His ability to blend suspense with thought-provoking themes makes him a sought-after director in the genre. The combination of a comedic actor branching into horror and a seasoned horror director signals a potential blurring of genre lines, attracting both established horror fans and new viewers. This synergy is likely to drive further interest in projects filmed in unconventional locations like those found in New Jersey.
Beyond “The Home”: New Jersey’s Growing Film Industry
“The Home” isn’t the only production taking advantage of New Jersey’s diverse landscapes and proximity to major metropolitan areas. The state has seen a significant increase in film and television production in recent years, fueled by tax incentives and a desire for locations that offer a unique aesthetic. This growth isn’t limited to horror; however, the genre’s relatively low budget requirements and adaptability make it particularly well-suited for filming in less conventional spaces. The economic impact of these productions on local communities, like Morris County, is substantial, creating jobs and boosting tourism.
The Psychological Horror Surge: Why Now?
The popularity of psychological horror, as exemplified by films like “Hereditary” (2018) and “The Babadook” (2014), reflects a broader cultural fascination with mental health, trauma, and the complexities of the human psyche. Audiences are increasingly seeking narratives that explore internal struggles and anxieties, rather than relying solely on jump scares and gore. This shift aligns with a growing awareness of mental health issues and a desire for stories that resonate on a deeper emotional level. The use of unsettling locations, like abandoned institutions, serves to amplify these themes, creating a sense of claustrophobia and psychological vulnerability. This trend is also fueled by the success of horror streaming on platforms like Shudder and the increasing accessibility of independent horror films.
The Role of Nostalgia and Decay
There’s a particular resonance with locations that evoke a sense of nostalgia and decay. Abandoned buildings, particularly those with a history of caregiving or community, tap into primal fears about aging, loss, and the fragility of life. The Saint Francis Residential Community, as a former nursing home, carries a weight of history and a sense of forgotten lives. This inherent melancholy adds another layer of depth to the horror narrative, making it more unsettling and emotionally impactful. This is a key element of what makes atmospheric horror so effective.
Future Implications: The Rise of Location-Specific Horror
Looking ahead, we can expect to see a continued rise in location-specific horror – films that are deeply rooted in the history and atmosphere of their filming locations. Filmmakers will increasingly seek out unique and unconventional spaces, leveraging their inherent stories to create more immersive and psychologically resonant experiences. This trend could also lead to a resurgence of regional horror, with filmmakers focusing on the folklore and local legends of specific areas. The success of “The Home” and similar projects could inspire other productions to film in New Jersey, further solidifying the state’s position as a hub for genre film. The intersection of horror films and real-world locations is a potent combination, and one that is likely to shape the future of the genre.
What are your predictions for the future of horror filmmaking and the use of real-world locations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
