Less Gatekeeping, More Crypt-Keeping!!

I thought about writing about Malignant for this week’s blog (which I loved by the way and totally recommend!) but something much more interesting came up as horror Twitter chewed the movie up in its discourse.

As with any movie, reactions were mixed. However, this film seemed to be extremely polarizing which in and of itself is fine; but the way people were jumping on each other over differences in opinion was atrocious. Guys, its not that serious! Just because someone does not clock every single genre reference that James Wan layered into the film does not minimize their like/ dislike or enjoyment od the film. We don’t need to justify our opinions like it’s a debate. Social media is supposed to be a fun way to discuss the things we love with a group of people that love the same things.

I have to say its gotten pretty nerve-wracking putting anything up on social media. I’m not a confrontational person so I’m really not interested in engaging with any hostility. Luckily, I have not been put into that position often. I think everyone knows I’m a silly fun-loving bitch so its all good. I’m the first to say I don’t consider myself a critic. I know what I like and I know why I like it, but I also recognize that my opinion is hugely subjective. I didn’t go to film school and I’m definitely not a filmmaker. I would never want to shit all over something someone put their blood, sweat and tears into. I’ll leave the critical commentary to the trade publications.

For me horror was always about having fun. Yes, the genre is inherently political, and I love it for that reason but I’m there mainly for the monsters and the body count. My friends and I of course take the deep dive and examine all the minutia but its safe to do so in the confines of our group. No one jumps down anyone else’s throat for a hot-take or a gap in genre viewership.

Gatekeeping in horror has been a hot topic as of late which is a shame because that’s the exact opposite of what the genre stands for in its current state. Historically, the genre has dealt poorly with minorities and the queer community, but I am thrilled to see that beginning to change. As horror lovers we need to embrace that evolving spirit and translate that to our treatment of fellow horror fans.