"The thing about all good horror movies is that the fans expect a couple of inside jokes. Maybe I'm supposed to be saying how terrified I was while making it, but it was really fun"

Margot Kidder’s reflection captures a unique aspect of the horror genre, highlighting the dual nature of its creation and reception. She acknowledges that true horror films, despite their intent to terrify, have a tradition of layering inside jokes and self-referential humor within their narratives. This serves as a nod to the fans who are deeply invested in the genre’s conventions and history. These in-jokes act as a bridge between the filmmakers and the audience, rewarding attentive viewers with a sense of inclusion and shared knowledge. They may come in the form of subtle visual cues, references to previous classics, or playful subversions of common horror tropes.

Kidder also touches upon the public expectation that actors in horror films must have experienced genuine terror during production. This is a common presumption, perhaps stemming from the intensity with which such performances are often delivered. However, her admissions reveal an important truth about the filmmaking process: horror, no matter how nightmarish on screen, can be very enjoyable and even lighthearted for the people involved in making it. The camaraderie and creativity required to stage scares, stunts, and special effects often fosters a sense of fun and teamwork among cast and crew. The contrast between onscreen fear and offscreen enjoyment underscores both the technical artistry and the performative dimension of the genre.

By breaking with the convention of describing her experience as terrifying, Kidder demystifies the process and draws attention to the craft behind horror films. Her words encourage a more nuanced appreciation: one that recognizes the genre’s insider complexities, its playful intelligence, and the pleasure that can be found both in its viewing and its creation. For fans and creators alike, horror becomes not just a vehicle for fear, but also a space for community, creativity, and shared delight in the peculiar magic of moviemaking.