Propp's character theory claims there are seven
different character types within films. Examples
are from the 2012 horror film 'Sinister,' however
this film does not contain all of the seven
different characters.
False Hero
Dispatcher
Donor
Princess' father
Helper e.g. Professor Jonas
Princess e.g. Tracy Oswalt
Villain e.g. Bughuul and Ashley Oswalt
Hero e.g. Ellison Oswalt
The main emphasise within
horror films is the villain, often
they can be human, often they
can be supernatural or in some
cases, like 'The Conjuring,' the
antagonist isn't seen at all.
The hero's are usually depicted as a group of
people, whether it be a group of friends, like
in 'The Hole,' or a family, like in 'Sinister.'
Their conflict with the antagonist forms the
basis of the film's plot.
The presence of a Princess or Princess' father is
quite unconventional in most horror films as
there is a lack of love in a lot of those films,
therefore there is no need for a female love
interest.
Characters such as the dispatcher, false hero
and donor are all quite rare in horror films as
the plot often steers away from that sort of
thing, the main focus is placed on the heroes
and the antagonists.