What's Happening?
Bryan Bertino, a filmmaker known for his work in the horror genre, discusses his latest film 'Vicious,' which premiered at Fantastic Fest and is now streaming on Paramount+. The film stars Dakota Fanning
as Polly, a woman who encounters a mysterious visitor with a strange box. Bertino emphasizes the theme of ambiguity in his films, drawing inspiration from his experiences in Austin, Texas, where he developed his love for cinema. 'Vicious' continues Bertino's tradition of exploring unsettling scenarios without clear explanations, a hallmark of his previous works like 'The Strangers' and 'The Dark and the Wicked.'
Why It's Important?
Bertino's approach to horror, focusing on ambiguity and the unknown, challenges traditional storytelling by leaving audiences with unanswered questions. This method can heighten the sense of fear and suspense, as viewers are left to grapple with the uncertainty of the characters' situations. By not providing clear resolutions, Bertino's films invite audiences to engage more deeply with the narrative, pondering the motivations and outcomes of the characters' actions. This style contributes to the evolving landscape of horror cinema, where psychological and atmospheric elements are increasingly valued over explicit explanations.
Beyond the Headlines
The exploration of ambiguity in horror films raises questions about the nature of fear and how audiences process uncertainty. Bertino's work suggests that the most profound terror may come from the absence of answers, reflecting real-world anxieties where not all events have clear causes or solutions. This approach also highlights the role of filmmakers in shaping audience perceptions and emotions, using narrative techniques to evoke deeper psychological responses. As horror continues to evolve, directors like Bertino push the boundaries of the genre, encouraging viewers to confront their fears in new and unsettling ways.
