The jump scare is one of the most abused and, as this video posits, improperly used mechanics in horror movies. A loud noise, a sharp cut, and there you go. Scare achieved, moving on.
But what needs to be recognized is that the jump scare isn’t actually the problem, it’s simply how it’s utilized that makes people hate it. After all, how many times have we seen a cat jump out of a closet or from behind a table before we begin to roll our eyes instead of flinch?
YouTube channel Now You See It has created a wonderful video that goes into the mechanics of crafting a well-structured jump scare and why they can actually be of the utmost importance in setting the right mood and atmosphere in a horror film.
Check it out below and then weigh in with your thoughts on the jump scare. Do you like them? Hate them? Hate movies that use them poorly? Let us know!