Documentary

Thrill Me!: The Benefits of Horror

Horror films terrify and excite, but beneath their jump scares and bloody visuals lies a deeper truth: these films are powerful tools of psychological and social development. THRILL ME! dives into the fascinating ways horror serves as a transformative experience for its viewers, helping people confront real-life anxieties, build resilience, and even strengthen social bonds.

While often misunderstood as mere shock value entertainment, horror is a global phenomenon with exclusive festivals and a passionate, well-defined audience that constantly craves its dark allure. THRILL ME! explores the question: What is the magic of horror? Why do we, as humans, continually seek out fear? From classic creature features to modern psychological terrors, this documentary reveals how the genre addresses our deepest fears in a safe environment, providing therapeutic benefits while captivating audiences across cultures and generations.

With exclusive access to renowned psychologists, filmmakers, and horror aficionados, THRILL ME! showcases the scientific research that supports horror’s benefits while exploring personal stories of transformation. This documentary promises to challenge perceptions of the genre, shifting it from guilty pleasure to a powerful form of catharsis and psychological growth. Through this lens, horror is revealed as more than just thrills—it’s a vital part of the human experience that captivates and heals in unexpected ways.

Year

2025

Director

Adrian G. de la Peña

Co-Producers

Rosie Dransfeld, and Adrian G. de la Peña