Summary Of Projected Fears By Kendall Phillips

In the introduction to Kendall Phillips’ book, “Projected Fears,” he discusses “horror films that made such an impression on American culture that they became instantly recognizable and, indeed, redefined the notion of what a horror film is.” (Phillips 3). This list of movies includes many favorites, such as Halloween, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Scream. Phillips later states his thesis, “...my argument in this book is that these [movies] are the most ‘successful’ and ‘influential’ in American history and that their level of success and influence can be correlated to broader cultural anxieties into which they somehow tapped” (Phillips 3). These movies on this list mimic real-life fears and allow some viewers to find catharsis in the mimicry.

This is first shown in one of the opening scenes when Vincent Grey breaks into the Crowe household. He says, “Do you know why you’re afraid when you’re alone? I do, I do.” Vincent is afraid when he’s alone because he can see the lingering ghosts, but he suggests that even without the ability to see the ghosts one would still be frightened. This anxiety is shown in most of Cole’s encounters with the dead, he is obviously afraid of them, due to the fact that he is unsure of their intentions. When Malcolm suggests he listen to the ghosts, he voices this fear, “What if they don't want help? What if they're just angry and they just want to hurt somebody?” After he follows Malcolm’s advice and attempts to help the ghosts, one can see him slowly overcoming his fear, because he has begun to learn about what was once unknown. We see this once more in Cole and Malcolm’s goodbye. Cole is afraid of what he will do without him, so he asks if they can “...pretend that we’re going to see each other tomorrow. Just for pretend.” Malcolm complies with Cole’s wishes and simply replies, “Okay. I’m gonna go now. I’ll see you tomorrow, Cole.” Through Cole and Vincent, the movie reflects the unknown which the audience also fears. Showing this anxiety aids many in finding catharsis for their own personal