Horror Movies: A Surprising Tool for Truth
When people think about horror movies, the first thing that comes to mind is often fear, darkness, or gore. It’s not surprising that many assume horror and faith - or even hope - are incompatible. After all, how could a story meant to terrify us also uplift us? And if you don’t like horror, how could you ever find value in supporting one?
These are understandable concerns. But horror, as a genre, is uniquely positioned to tell stories about truth, morality, and the human condition in ways that resonate deeply. That’s why I chose this genre for Wretch Like Me, and I’d like to share why I believe horror movies, even if you’re not a fan, can be a powerful and meaningful medium for storytelling.
Horror Connects Us to Universal Truths
At its core, horror is about survival. It forces characters to confront their worst fears and grapple with their flaws in high-stakes situations. Whether it’s a monster, a haunting, or a battle against inner demons, the genre strips away distractions and leaves its characters (and its audience) with the raw essentials: Who am I? What do I believe? What am I willing to fight for? These questions resonate far beyond the screen. Horror movies allow us to explore what it means to be human, often in the face of something larger than ourselves.
This makes the genre surprisingly compatible with stories about hope, redemption, and transformation. Horror shows us the darkness but never leaves us there. At their best, these stories shine light into the cracks, offering glimpses of resilience, courage, and faith.
Why Horror Works So Well
Horror doesn’t just tell you something - it makes you feel it. The best horror movies evoke visceral emotions, creating lasting impressions that linger long after the credits roll. That’s why stories like The Exorcist or Get Out remain so impactful. They take big ideas - like the struggle between good and evil, or the consequences of societal injustice - and bring them to life in ways that feel urgent and unforgettable.
This emotional connection is why horror can deliver a message more powerfully than other genres. It bypasses intellectual defenses and goes straight to the heart, making its themes resonate deeply.
Supporting the Message, Even If You Don’t Like Horror
For those who don’t enjoy horror movies, I completely understand. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay. But supporting a horror project doesn’t mean you have to enjoy being scared. It’s about recognizing the value of storytelling that reaches people in ways other genres can’t. Just as we appreciate the unique way a comedy can uplift or a drama can inspire empathy, horror has its own role to play in connecting with audiences.
A couple of weeks ago I got to sit down with the legendary Doug Jones to discuss Wretch Like Me, the upcoming film where Doug takes on the role of Hank, a deeply flawed but determined father. Together, we explored the heart of the story, the film’s mission to bring hope and redemption to audiences, and Doug’s unique perspective on faith and storytelling.
If you’re someone who believes in the power of stories to change lives, consider the potential of horror as a genre that speaks to people who might not otherwise engage with more traditional narratives. Supporting a project like Wretch Like Me isn’t about endorsing fear - it’s about backing a story that uses the tools of horror to explore universal truths and reach new audiences.
Why I Chose Horror for Wretch Like Me
Hollywood Director Scott Derrickson (The Black Phone, Sinister) was asked how a Christian can do horror films, his response is quite simple: “How can a Christian not do horror films? No one is more equipped to do horror films than a Christian. Horror is the genre that deals most with good and evil; it is nearly impossible to make an amoral horror film. Horror is the genre of non-denial - the genre about confrontation of what we’re most afraid of.”
When I set out to write Wretch Like Me, I knew I wanted to tell a story that mattered - one that was raw, honest, and deeply human. Horror gave me the freedom to explore themes of struggle and hope in a way that felt real and grounded. It’s a genre that doesn’t shy away from the messiness of life, and that’s what makes it so powerful.
Horror has an incredible ability to speak to people in their darkest moments, to meet them where they are, and to show them that they’re not alone. It’s a genre that invites us to wrestle with big questions and, in doing so, leaves room for answers that are both challenging and transformative.
The Bigger Picture
Whether or not you love horror movies, I hope you can see their potential as a tool for storytelling that reaches into places other genres might not. A horror movie like Wretch Like Me isn’t just about scares - it’s about connection, humanity, and the enduring fight for hope in the face of fear.
Learn More About Wretch Like Me
If this perspective on horror has piqued your interest, I’d love for you to learn more about Wretch Like Me. This project has been a labor of love, blending meaningful storytelling with the raw power of the horror genre. We’re currently in the fundraising phase, and your support - whether through prayer, sharing the campaign, or contributing - can make a huge difference in bringing this vision to life.
Visit our fundraising campaign to explore more about the story, the team, and how you can be part of this journey. Thank you for considering this opportunity to support a unique project with a powerful message!
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