Women Watching Horror Films A column by Heather O'Neill on gender and horror cinema.

Cover Photo: A screenshot of Cate Blanchett as Lydia Tàr from the film Tàr. She is holding a conductor's baton and has her arms spread wide.

In Horror Films, the Newest Nightmare Is Getting Canceled

Men around me speak about cancel culture with such hyperbole and terror, you’d think it was a supernatural force.

Heather O'Neill

Feb 09, 2023

Arts & Culture | Columns | Women Watching Horror Films

Cover Photo: A screenshot of a female android from the film EX MACHINA. She is standing next to a mirror and looking away from the camera. Her neck and scalp show exposed wiring around her face.

Do Female Androids Dream of Rebellion?

There is something revolutionary in their will to be free.

Heather O'Neill

Nov 23, 2022

Columns | Women Watching Horror Films

Cover Photo: A screenshot from the television show Yellowjackets, which depicts a group of teenage girls standing in the dark woods, wearing crowns of flowers and face coverings and staring threateningly at the camera.

Why Is Horror So Afraid of Female Friendship?

When girls begin to work in groups, their latent potential can be the stuff of horror films.

Heather O'Neill

Oct 06, 2022

Columns | Women Watching Horror Films