Spielberg on Horror

How does Spielberg craft such effective horror scenes in his blockbuster films? What are three techniques that you've learned in this unit that Spielberg uses? How does he use them?

Spielberg focuses on the character's reaction more than the source of fear itself. The facial expression is more important in displaying emotion and communicating that emotion to the audience. Spielberg also intensifies fear by building up fear before the actual danger appears. The mystery surrounding what the source of danger is increases the suspense in the scene (fear of the unknown.) Instead of glorifying the scene like some other block buster movies, Spielberg specifically gears the scene so that it terrifies the audience.