In order to effectively represent my genre, it is absolutely crucial that I have a solid understanding of the film conventions, methods of cinematography, and patterns that add up to make a good horror film. In which case, what better movie to investigate than the horror classic ‘It’ which earned over 700.4 million USD in the box office?

Much of the opening sequence for It contains crosscutting, an editing technique used with the intention to direct the flow of conversation- in this case the conversation occurring between Georgie and Pennywise. Here, a low angle shot is employed to emulate Pennywise’s perspective from the sewer. This is ironic, considering low angle shots typically place the viewer in a place of inferiority and weakness. Obviously, Georgie’s timid and innocent persona does not evoke this kind of emotion.

In contrast to the shot discussed previously, we are now immersed into the event from Georgie’s perspective. This is done through the use of an over the shoulder shot. Much like before, there is a paradox present here in using a high angle shot as it places the subject into a position of inferiority. Clearly, Pennywise is not the victim in this situation.

Like most horror films, close ups are present throughout to aid in producing and demonstrating fear.
In addition to this, lowkey lighting, specifically chiaroscuro lighting is used to manipulate the shadows on Pennywise’s face. This makes him appear scarier and intimidates the audience. (unless of course you’re weird and clowns don’t scare you sMh)

After Pennywise tears Georgie’s left arm off, the balance of the camera angles are suddenly shifted. Unlike before, the viewer has now been removed from the action and instead immersed into an omniscient perspective of the event. We are now observing the scene through a crane shot of Georgie lying helpless on the pavement. The camera begins to shake violently (also known as a canted angle), thus disorienting the viewer and simulating the panic/ distress being experienced by Georgie. Not to mention, Pennywise’s hand barely creeping into the frame makes this all the more disturbing.