Horror films have been a unique part of the digital culture for as long as we can remember. One of the tricks for producers is constantly tying in audiences of recent generations and making the content relatable within that date and time. As discussed in Modern Horror Films are Finding Their Scares in Dead Phone Batteries, films are working to tie in the most captivating content with the 95% of people who own a cell phone of some sort. Including this fear to not have the ability to contact or communicate with an outside individual for help stimulates challenges for the 21st century. However, though this article may further discuss these points, I believe there’s a more philosophical reason behind the “horror” in cell phones dying. Generations today cannot physically live without their cell phones.
For teens and young adults, the thought of leaving a cell phone out of reach is a deadly thought. What if someone calls me and I’m not there to answer? What if someone likes or comments on my post and I can’t see it right away? These questions spark a new area of discussion; will our generation and the generations below us be reliant, if not addicted, to their phones being constantly charged in the future? Thinking of this idea allows me to reflect on personal experiences, and sadly I would answer yes. Seeing the horrendous images in horror films and losing/forgetting to charge my phone both allow me to exhibit the same amount of fear. Horror film industries are on track to keeping younger generations hooked, and further allowing us to realize that having our phone dead really is terrifying.