Creature Horror
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What is the Creature Horror Subgenre?
Creature horror, also sometimes referred to as monster horror, are stories of the struggles of human protagonists against some sort of monster, of the inhuman variety. These can range from classic monster tales such as Frankenstein by Mary Shelley or Dracula by Bram Stoker. Monsters can also be pulled from genres such as fantasy and sci-fi. Aliens, leprechauns, trolls, and the like are also popular antagonists in monster fiction. Even animals and plants can be monsters in this subgenre, which is one of the reasons that the subgenre is called creature horror as opposed to simply monster horror.
The monsters may be small, though the cuteness factor tends to lend itself to horror comedy as opposed to full-tilt chills, though that doesn't mean that small creatures aren't horrific in their own right. Alternatively, the monsters can be giants, such as King Kong or Godzilla. Some creature horror has become so popular that it has developed its own subgenre. This is true for monsters such as vampires, werewolves, and zombies. But horror writers are always dreaming up new ways to scare, and so, new monsters and creatures will always find their way into this vast subgenre.
Creature Horror Characteristics
Level of Characterization: The level of characterization in creature horror is generally low to moderate, with primary consideration given to the characterization of the creature or monster in the piece.
Level of Plot: Creature horror tends to feature low levels of plotting. The typical creature horror plot consists of a some form of monster terrorizing a protagonist or group of protagonists, and the struggles that the protagonist must go through to stop the monster. Another popular element in creature horror is that of a science experiment gone wrong. This is often the explanation for the creature's sudden appearance.
Level of Supernatural: The level of supernatural in creature horror is moderate to high as some monsters in this subgenre could be considered to be supernatural.
Level of Scary: Because this subgenre is so vast, the level of scary within creature horror varies. Some tales run more toward the horror comedy spectrum or action adventure spectrum with low level scares, while others are truly terrifying.
Level of Violence: As a result of the monster terrorizing the human protagonists, the level of violence in creature horror is moderate to high.
Typical Setting: Creature horror is a large genre, and as such, typical settings are varied. Often, the settings are modern, and offer some level of isolation so the monsters can more easily terrorize the protagonist.
Related Horror Subgenres
Science experiments gone awry, demons, or other monsters. Like supernatural horror, creature horror requires a healthy suspension of disbelief. If you prefer your monsters of the human variety, this subgenre is probably not for you.