Horror fiction can, paradoxically, win space for new and liberating political and social thinking about disability
Hall, Melinda. Horrible Heroes: Liberating Alternative Visions of Disability in Horror. Stetson University. p. 2
Why Disability Matters in Horror
Horror has always been fascinated by bodies that don’t fit the “norm”—but too often, those bodies are reduced to monsters, metaphors, or tragedies. These portrayals shape how we see difference in the real world, repeating stereotypes instead of challenging them.
Through my research and writing, I ask a different question: What if horror stopped using disability as a shortcut for fear and instead made space for disabled characters to be at the heart of the story?
My work explores how cosmic and Lovecraftian horror can centre disabled perspectives, bringing in all the awe, strangeness, and dread of the genre, while portraying disabled bodies and voices with honesty, agency, and nuance. Because the scariest thing shouldn’t be disability itself, it should be what happens when we refuse to see beyond the stereotype.
Article Highlights
Disabled in the Dark: Understanding Disability and Fear in Cronenberg Films
The Fly (1986) transcends typical horror, examining physical degeneration and mental disfigurement tied to deep fears of disability and transformation. Cronenberg’s film reflects societal stigmas, exploring identity while showcasing resilience against change. It evokes empathy and introspection, challenging viewers’ perceptions of vulnerability, strength, and the human condition within a horror context.
Book v Film: Exploring Zelda in Pet Sematary’s Adaptations
The portrayal of disability in horror, particularly through Zelda in “Pet Sematary,” varies between adaptations. The novel emphasizes her trauma and isolation, inviting empathy, while the 1989 film amplifies ableist tropes. The 2019 adaptation introduces depth, transforming fear into understanding. Thoughtful representation can reshape societal perceptions and enhance horror narratives.
Videogame Review: Alan Wake and Access in Horror Games and the Future of Inclusivity
Accessibility in the gaming industry, especially in horror games, is still lacking, particularly for visually impaired players. While Alan Wake 2 offers some improvements, it misses crucial features like screen readers and high-contrast modes. The overall goal should be comprehensive inclusivity, allowing all players to experience the thrill of gaming without barriers.
Join the Conversation
I’m always looking to listen, learn, and do better.
If you’ve noticed a disability trope in horror that frustrates you, or if you have an experience or perspective you’d like to see represented with more honesty and depth, I’d love to hear from you.
Your insights help shape the stories I tell and the research I do.
You can share your thoughts with me through the message function below, or connect with me on social media.
Together, we can imagine horror that doesn’t just scare, it makes space.
KATIE MARIE 