The Trauma Trope in Horror: From Overuse to a New Era of Nuance
Nearly 70% of recent horror films utilize psychological trauma as a central plot device, according to a 2023 study by the University of Southern California’s Media School. But the effectiveness of this approach is waning. Audiences are becoming desensitized to the “monster is trauma” narrative, demanding more than just a surface-level exploration of grief and pain. The future of horror isn’t abandoning trauma, but evolving how it’s presented – and 2020’s His House offers a compelling blueprint.
Beyond the Jump Scare: Why ‘His House’ Resonates
Remi Weekes’ directorial debut, His House, starring Sope Dirisu and Wunmi Mosaku, isn’t simply a haunted house story. It’s a harrowing depiction of refugee trauma, guilt, and the insidious racism faced by asylum seekers. The film masterfully blends supernatural horror with the very real horrors of war, displacement, and cultural alienation. While films like Hereditary and The Babadook successfully pioneered this territory, and Smile attempted to follow suit, His House distinguishes itself through its specificity and unflinching portrayal of the psychological toll on its protagonists.
Mosaku’s performance, in particular, is a standout. She embodies Rial’s internal struggle with a raw vulnerability that elevates the film beyond typical genre fare. The scares aren’t just about what’s lurking in the walls of the dilapidated London house; they’re about the constant, suffocating anxiety of starting over in a hostile environment, the weight of survivor’s guilt, and the haunting memories of a life left behind.
The Rise of ‘Social Horror’ and the Demand for Authenticity
His House exemplifies a growing trend in horror: “social horror.” This subgenre uses the framework of scary stories to explore real-world social and political issues. Films like Get Out (2017) and Candyman (2021) have demonstrated the commercial and critical success of this approach. Audiences are increasingly seeking horror that reflects their anxieties about the world around them, and simply layering trauma onto a generic plot isn’t enough anymore.
The key to successful social horror lies in authenticity. Superficial engagement with complex issues feels exploitative and ultimately falls flat. His House avoids this pitfall by grounding its supernatural elements in the very real trauma experienced by South Sudanese refugees. The “apeth” – the vengeful spirit haunting Bol and Rial – isn’t just a monster; it’s a manifestation of their collective guilt and the horrors they witnessed. UNHCR data shows a record number of forcibly displaced people worldwide, making stories like theirs increasingly relevant and resonant.
Future Trends: Intersectionality and Personalized Horror
Looking ahead, we can expect to see even more nuanced and intersectional approaches to trauma in horror. Films will likely explore the interplay of trauma with other social identities – race, gender, sexuality, class – creating more complex and compelling narratives.
Another emerging trend is the potential for “personalized horror,” leveraging data and AI to create experiences tailored to individual anxieties and fears. While still in its early stages, this could involve interactive narratives that respond to the viewer’s emotional state or VR experiences that simulate traumatic events in a controlled environment. However, ethical considerations surrounding the use of trauma in this way will be paramount.
From Trope to Tool: Reclaiming Trauma in Horror
The “monster is trauma” trope isn’t inherently bad. It’s the way it’s used that matters. The future of horror lies in moving beyond simplistic representations of trauma and embracing its complexity. Films like His House demonstrate that when trauma is treated with sensitivity, specificity, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, it can be a powerful and profoundly unsettling force. The challenge for filmmakers isn’t to avoid trauma, but to wield it responsibly and creatively, offering audiences not just scares, but genuine emotional resonance and a deeper understanding of the human condition. What new perspectives on trauma do you think horror will explore next? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
