slasher film
/ˈslæʃər fɪlm/
Meaning
A slasher film is a specific subgenre of horror movies involving a psychopathic killer who stalks and murders a group of people, usually using bladed tools. These films often feature high suspense, predictable tropes, and a 'final girl' who survives at the end. It is a casual term used by movie fans and critics alike.
Examples
-
I can't watch a slasher film right before bed; those jump scares always keep me awake.
I can't watch a slasher film right before bed; those jump scares always keep me awake.
-
Halloween is widely considered one of the most influential slasher films of all time.
Halloween is widely considered one of the most influential slasher films of all time.
-
They are filming a new slasher film in the woods just outside of town.
They are filming a new slasher film in the woods just outside of town.
-
If you don't mind a bit of gore, this classic slasher film is actually highly entertaining.
If you don't mind a bit of gore, this classic slasher film is actually highly entertaining.
-
She prefers psychological thrillers over a typical slasher film with mindless violence.
She prefers psychological thrillers over a typical slasher film with mindless violence.
Common Mistakes
-
✗ I don't like slash movies because they are too bloody.
✓ I don't like slasher films because they are too bloody.
The correct term for this movie genre is 'slasher film' or 'slasher movie,' not 'slash movie.'
-
✗ That slasher film has a very scary ghost in it.
✓ That supernatural horror film has a very scary ghost in it.
A slasher film specifically involves a human (or human-like) killer with a weapon, not ghosts, spirits, or demons.
Related Expressions
Practice
-
Classic horror fans often debate which ___ has the highest body count.
💡 A horror movie featuring a killer chasing victims with a weapon.
Show answer
slasher film
-
I love a good ___ where the main character outsmarts the masked killer.
💡 Think of movies like Scream or Friday the 13th.
Show answer
slasher film