Slasher Horror Prop Deconstruction

Weapons in slasher films are often objects that can be used to cut through the flesh. This is why this sub-genre of horror is known as ‘slasher’. The weapons symbolise death. Sharp objects are normally used therefore weapons such as guns will not be seen in a slasher film. Weapons used include:

• Knives
• Axes
• Saws
• Hammers
• Razors

A specific weapon may be reserved for a specific victim. The weapons usually inflict a slow and painful death.

Masks- The killer normally remains unknown throughout the film to create an enigma and to keep the audience captivated by guessing the outcome. The killer may be unmasked towards the end of the film or if there is going to be a sequel the killer often remains masked.

Ropes, chains, blindfolds- These props are used to symbolise constraint and ambush. They add tension by showing the victim being imprisoned causing the audience to think will the victim escape or die?

Scream 4 (2011)

    ·The killer wears a mask to keep his/her identity unknown. The mask does not look like a human face but more like a ghost.

    · The killers weapon is a knife- in this image the knife already has blood on it to show that he/she has stabbed someone.

  
Saw V (2008)

     ·   A masked killer. The mask used shows the features of a face such as the mouth eyes and nose. However, there are no specific details such as the eye colour or whether this man has a beard so he is still unrecognisable.

     ·   The main weapon used in this film is a saw which is shown by the title of the   film.

     ·   The film also includes different traps that the victims become stuck in

 

Halloween II (2009)

     ·   Masked killer. His mask looks a bit worn and broken showing that it has been well used and may have been used in the previous 'Halloween' movie.

     ·   The weapon used is a knife as seen in this film poster. He looks as if he is about to stab someone.