The Future of Fear: How A24’s ‘Undertone’ Signals a New Wave in Horror
A24’s upcoming film, “undertone,” isn’t just generating buzz as the scariest movie of 2026; it’s a potential bellwether for the future of horror. The film’s reliance on aural terror, combined with psychological realism, taps into a growing trend: horror that prioritizes the power of suggestion and the listener’s imagination. But where is this trend heading, and what does it mean for the genre?
The Rise of Psychological and Aural Horror
For decades, horror has relied on jump scares and graphic visuals. While these elements still have their place, audiences are increasingly sophisticated. They crave experiences that linger, that burrow under the skin, and that exploit the vulnerabilities of the human psyche. “Undertone” exemplifies this shift. By focusing on sound – whispers, unexplained noises, and the unsettling ambiguity of audio recordings – the film bypasses the visual cortex and directly targets the amygdala, the brain’s fear center. This is a technique pioneered by films like “The Blair Witch Project” and “Paranormal Activity,” but “undertone” appears to be refining it.
This isn’t just anecdotal. A 2023 study by the University of Westminster found that audio-based horror experiences elicited stronger physiological responses (increased heart rate, skin conductance) than visually-driven scares in a significant percentage of participants. This suggests that sound can be a more potent trigger for fear than sight.
The Blurring Lines Between Reality and Fiction
“Undertone’s” premise – a podcast investigating supernatural phenomena – also highlights another emerging trend: the blurring of lines between reality and fiction. Found footage films already capitalized on this, presenting horror as “discovered” material. Now, we’re seeing a rise in “analog horror” – low-fi, often VHS-aesthetic videos that mimic public service announcements, local news broadcasts, or educational films, but with a sinister undercurrent. These projects thrive on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, creating a sense of unsettling realism.
This trend is fueled by the increasing prevalence of misinformation and the erosion of trust in traditional media. Audiences are more accustomed to questioning what they see and hear, making them more susceptible to horror that plays on those anxieties. The use of real-world mythology, as mentioned in the article, further amplifies this effect. Referencing established folklore grounds the fictional horror in something tangible and unsettlingly familiar.
The Personalization of Fear: AI and Interactive Horror
Looking further ahead, artificial intelligence (AI) promises to revolutionize horror in even more profound ways. Imagine a horror film that adapts to your individual fears, based on your biometric data or online activity. AI could generate personalized scares, tailor the narrative to your psychological profile, and create a truly unique and terrifying experience.
Interactive horror experiences are also gaining traction. Games like “Layers of Fear” and “Visage” demonstrate the power of allowing players to actively participate in the horror, making the experience far more immersive and unsettling. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies will only amplify this effect, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real.
The Impact of Trauma and Mental Health
Horror is increasingly reflecting and exploring themes of trauma, grief, and mental health. Films like “Hereditary” and “The Babadook” have demonstrated that horror can be a powerful vehicle for processing difficult emotions. “Undertone’s” inspiration from the director’s experiences caring for his parents during the pandemic suggests a continuation of this trend. Audiences are seeking horror that resonates on a deeper emotional level, that acknowledges the anxieties and uncertainties of modern life.
The Future is Quietly Terrifying
The success of “undertone,” if it lives up to the hype, could signal a major shift in the horror landscape. We can expect to see more films that prioritize psychological realism, aural terror, and the power of suggestion. The integration of AI and interactive technologies will further personalize and intensify the horror experience. And, crucially, horror will continue to grapple with the complex emotional and psychological realities of the human condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is “analog horror”? Analog horror refers to low-fi horror content, often resembling old VHS tapes or public access television, that creates a sense of unsettling realism.
- How does sound contribute to fear? Sound directly impacts the amygdala, the brain’s fear center, and can be more potent than visual scares.
- Will AI change horror films? Yes, AI has the potential to personalize horror experiences based on individual fears and create interactive narratives.
- Is psychological horror becoming more popular? Yes, audiences are increasingly seeking horror that is emotionally resonant and explores complex themes.
Want to delve deeper into the world of horror? Explore our other articles on the evolution of jump scares and the psychology of fear in film. Share your thoughts on the future of horror in the comments below!
