Why Horror Movies Don't Scare Me but Documentaries Do

Does it surprise you that despite being thrilled by horror movies, documentaries can leave you feeling more unsettled and afraid? There is a compelling reason for this peculiar phenomenon: the stark contrast between fiction and reality can trigger different psychological responses.

Understanding the Fear of the Unknown

The human mind has a remarkable capacity to process information and entertainment from fiction and non-fiction. While horror movies are designed to frighten, documentaries often reveal real stories that can be more terrifying because they are grounded in reality. When you watch a movie, you know it's a fabricated narrative. But when you watch a documentary, you are presented with a semblance of truth, which can be harder to process emotionally.

Psychological Discomfort: This sense of psychological discomfort arises because you cannot separate the content from your reality. You know that the characters in the documentary are real people, and their actions and behaviors can be replicated in the real world. This blurs the line between the movie screen and reality, making the fear more impactful.

Learning About the True Capacity of Human Nature

One of the primary reasons why documentaries can be more frightening is that they often reveal the darker aspects of human nature. The atrocities committed by individuals or groups in the real world are often more harrowing and disturbing than anything one can imagine in a fictional story. Documentaries provide a platform for truth and expose you to the real dangers and weaknesses that exist within society.

Because it can be more frightening to learn what real supposedly normal people are capable of when they lose their moral compass.

Consider the chilling stories of serial killers, abuse, and exploitation that are documented in various series and films. These real-life situations can be more shocking and distressing than any fictional horror film, as they are based on actual events and human behavior. The suspense and tension in documental stories often derive from their authenticity, making them more emotionally and psychologically resonant.

The Role of Fiction in Distancing Us

Horror movies are crafted to go to great lengths to create a sense of distance between the viewer and the events on screen. They often feature supernatural elements or unrealistic scenarios that keep the audience safe in a fictional world. As viewers, we are well aware that the characters and situations in horror movies are not real, and this understanding helps us to remain emotionally detached. On the other hand, documentaries often portray real-life events without the added layer of fiction, making the content seem more immediate and personal.

Why Horror Movies Aren't Scaring You Anymore

Ironically, the very reason why you might not be scared by horror movies anymore is because you have become more desensitized to the types of fear they evoke. By repeatedly exposing yourself to fictional horrors, your mind builds a resistance to fear, making you less susceptible to the scares. Moreover, the narrative structures of most horror movies are often predictable, providing a clear resolution that helps you rationalize and detach from the fear.

The Psychological Impact of Documentaries

Documentaries, on the other hand, often leave you with a sense of helplessness or unsettlement because the issues they address are often unresolved. Unlike horror movies, documentaries don't provide a satisfying conclusion, which can make the experience more lingering and emotionally taxing. The reality portrayed in these films can be deeply troubling and leave a lasting impact on your psyche.

Here's an example: A documentary series on child abuse might show footage of children being exploited and mistreated, followed by a detailed explanation of the legal and societal issues involved. This can be far more distressing than watching fictional characters facing similar challenges, as the viewers know that such abuses are real and happening in the world.

Conclusion

While horror movies might be thrilling, documentaries can be more unsettling because they delve into real, often disturbing aspects of life. The fear experienced from a documentary is rooted in the realization of the real potential for such events to occur. It is important to understand and accept the differences between the two mediums, as they serve unique and powerful purposes in entertainment and education. Whether you find yourself more drawn to the thrills of horror or the sobering reality of documentaries, both have their place in the tapestry of human experience.