Cool Video: Is Horror Too Problematic to Enjoy?

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

Now, don't let that title scare you away, because – SPOILER ALERT – no, of course horror is obviously not too problematic to enjoy. However, the vid from YouTuber Scaredy Cats (a.k.a. Thought Slime) does a great job talking about the thorny issue of how horror can often be othering, exploitative, and…well…problematic, and how it's okay to enjoy films with these questionable elements regardless.

Thing is, this is unavoidable in a genre built on pushing boundaries and often making an audience uncomfortable. But just because that's its intent, doesn't make it free from criticism – and in fact, might need an even more critical eye than most. And Scaredy Matt (the host) does a great job navigating these issues and seeming contradictions to find a satisfying synthesis.

So what do you guys think? Either way, sound off below!