Film Opening | Target Audience

In order to determine the target audience for our film, we searched the internet for the main target audience which is usually associated with horror films. Whilst conducting research, we came across an answer to a question that had been asked about what the target audience is for horror films. Their answer stated:

"A horror film's target audience is generally those in the age group 15-25. It is mostly aimed at men as they are more likely to be able to interact with the characters on screen. Women can interact with those on screen too but they would tend to react differently. The secondary audience is dating couples."

After conducting more research we came across the demographics for the horror genre. On the following presentation we found the information useful:

http://www.slideshare.net/baaa_sheep/horror-film-7235672

The demographics stated:

- Teenagers and young adults who want an adrenaline rush from being fearful of something/someone.

- Males aged 16-35 are most likely to watch horror films.

An example of some horror films with this target audience are as follows:

Halloween (1972) - 18 certificate shows the audience is for 18 or over because of the obvious violence that occurs repeatedly in the film.

 

The Shining (1980) - Certificate 15 shows this is for a younger audience (15/over) because the film, although has a high level of gore, includes a child as a main character. Also over time, people have become more immune to horror films.

The Thing (1982) - Certificate 18 because of the extreme graphic gore. There is also seven uses of language such as ‘sh*t’.

After reading this information, we have decided that our target audience will be the young teenage audience to early adults (15-21) but older adults can also choose to watch the film. We believe our film opening will appeal mostly to this age range.