Exploring the Appeal of Horror Movies: A Case Study on Jordan Peele's Films

This thesis examines the historical and cultural evolution of the horror genre and its enduring role as a vehicle for social commentary. Beginning with early 20th-century films like Dracula and Frankenstein, horror has consistently mirrored societal anxieties, from fears surrounding economic collapse and scientific overreach to issues of racial segregation and marginalization. As the genre matured, it responded to shifting historical contexts—Cold War paranoia, civil unrest in the 1960s and 70s, conservative backlash in the 1980s, post-9/11 global fear, and the rise of psychological horror—demonstrating its unique capacity to explore the darker dimensions of the human experience. Central to this analysis is the work of Jordan Peele, whose films Get Out, Us, and Nope have amplified modern horror by centering Black protagonists and directly confronting systemic racism, class inequality, and the commodification of trauma. Peele’s films not only elevate the genre but also expand its cultural relevance by engaging with contemporary issues through layered symbolism, genre subversion, and emotional depth. Through historical context and focused case studies, this thesis argues that horror remains a powerful and evolving tool for critiquing dominant ideologies, amplifying marginalized voices, and engaging audiences in meaningful cultural reflection.