Splitting the atom, human cloning, AI technology—these discoveries have sparked fear in many people who worry that science is crossing boundaries not meant to be crossed. The question seems to boil down to, “Are people overstepping the limits of what they’re meant to know?” Cosmic horror attempts to answer this.
H.P. Lovecraft and the Essence of Cosmic Terror
H.P. Lovecraft’s writing is the epitome of cosmic terror. His stories revolve around ancient knowledge delivered by arcane creatures. Those who dared to look into the void risked madness. All were changed forever. This is vividly portrayed in “The Shadow over Innsmouth,” where Robert Olmstead’s curiosity gets the better of him. He explores the town’s secrets, discovers their pact with ancient beings in the ocean, and becomes entangled in their horror.
Alex Garland’s Annihilation: A Modern Cosmic Horror Tale
Another example comes from one of my favorite directors, Alex Garland. Annihilation tells the story of a team of scientists who set out to explore a strange phenomenon called ‘The Shimmer.’ As biologist Lena travels with her group, they experience unexplainable, surreal occurrences that make them question reality. Driven by the need to know, Lena eventually reaches the epicenter of The Shimmer, triggering an existential crisis.
The Haunting Journey of YellowBrickRoad
Last weekend, I re-watched a compelling movie called YellowBrickRoad. The simple premise follows a group of explorers determined to uncover why the town of Friar, New Hampshire, walked into the woods in 1940 and disappeared. This haunting movie tracks the modern group as they attempt to follow the same trail. The further the group goes along the trail, the more the trail plays tricks on their minds. Haunting music follows them everywhere, they hike miles without getting anywhere, and the party members become disoriented and paranoid. The deeper they venture, the more they realize that there is no turning back. YellowBrickRoad is a surreal, head trip of a movie, with cinematography that mimics the anxiety-inducing trail itself. The group was never meant to travel this road, and they pay a dear price for giving in to their curiosity.
The Fascination with Cosmic Horror
Cosmic horror, or cosmic terror, will always be one of my favorite types of horror. The question of whether mankind has exceeded its limits fascinates me. I also enjoy the surrealism of these kinds of movies. I appreciate horror movies and books that give me food for thought, and these certainly fit the bill.
Have you enjoyed any of these books or movies? What are your favorite cosmic horror stories? Let me know in the comments.
