You know what I don't understand? How people can just causally watch horror movies and not be scared at all! Or maybe it's just me who's that way. I have never seen a real horror movie before. I mean, sure, I've seen stuff like "Jurassic Park" or "Ghostbusters," but I mean a movie that's sole purpose is to make your heart race and terrify you with paranormal entities or psycho murderers. Maybe it's because I believe in ghosts. Maybe it's because I get nervous easily. Maybe I'm a baby. Who knows? But the tides are about to turn. I found out that my friends and I will be watching a horror movie for my best friend's birthday, and I don't want to be the odd one out. So I've complied a helpful little list for those like me who can't take the terror.
1. Watch the movie with friends.
Preferably ones who have experience with horror movies. Just like you have more fun laughing with friends, you can have more fun screaming with them. Sit close to them and jokingly tell them not to judge you when you scream and cry. Having someone who loves horror movies is better. It's always a great grounding point to have someone calling out a protagonist for their actions, making bad sounds effects or breaking a tense, quiet moment. Also, make sure a sleepover follows the movie so you aren't in your room alone that night, contemplating your death.
2. Know your biggest fears.
I am terrified of zombies, but I have no idea why. I always have been, and it looks like I always will, which is why I will never ever see a movie with corpses that can turn you into one of their own. Are you terrified of being murdered in your shower? Don't watch "Psycho." Hate ghosts? Don't watch "Paranormal Activity." Know what would scare you the most, and avoid it at all costs.
3. Overreact slightly to gore and jump-scares.
When you scream and jump, let your friends laugh at you and put on a show for them. Say "Ugh!" during gore, and wiggle. It'll help you remember the movie's not real, and this is all for fun, especially for jump scares. One of the best feelings in the world is laughing off a jump-scare.
4. Bring blankets, pillows and stuffed animals.
I have those great friends that will let me hug them during scary parts of movies. However, I'm aware that I'm way bigger than all of them, so I bring comfort objects. Blankets are great to wrap around your face during that one part that you just can't watch, and hugging stuffed animals is just plain nice in general. Plus, the pillow is good for blocking out loud noises if that are a turn-off for you.
5. If you're really scared, spoil the movie for yourself.
If you really can't shake that anxiety, read the Wikipedia plot article for the movie. Research what the inspiration is. See who the actors are. Not only will you not be anxiously wiggling on the edge of your seat, but you'll also have proof that this isn't real. You can control your own thoughts by knowing what's coming next, an advantage that the characters don't have. And in the end, that's all that matters.
While these may not put your mind at ease, be assured there's absolutely no shame in suggesting a different movie or opting out all together. But if you feel that you're ready to take on the scaries, then I hope you have a wonderful time feeling that adrenaline rush so you can smile after the credits roll.
