RC Jara
“Even in the transgressive genre of horror, queerness and transness must be smuggled by filmmakers or unearthed after the fact. Otherwise, we are made to suffer material that masks itself as radical but is functionally conservative. It is a total shame that the model of film production is less than hospitable to trans creators. ”
What is your favourite genre of horror?
My top favorite would have to be the Supernatural Slasher.
What movies would you recommend in that genre?
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987), Candyman (1992), Child's Play 2 (1990), and Final Destination 3 (2006)
What are your favourite horror movies?
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), Ginger Snaps (2000), The Shining (1980) and Us (2019)
What was the last horror movie that actually scared you?
I couldn't sleep after watching the shudder original film Host (2020). I don't scare easily but that film really got to me! The scares are so incredibly effective.
What is your favourite moment from a horror movie?
I love the werewolf reveal scene in Trick 'r Treat (2007). It is the kind of scene that becomes more satisfying with every watch because you notice all of the clues and hints leading up to it. Also, it is probably my favorite werewolf transformation scene of all time, everything about it is so well done.
Why is horror special for you?
Horror has the ability to bring people together on such a deeply personal level. The genre is always reflective of the fears we have in our everyday lives, and horror allows us to face those fears and have shared moments of catharsis. No other genre has inspired and empowered me as horror has.
What character in a horror do you relate to most and why?
Rochelle from The Craft (1996). I always see so much of myself in that character and her personality. Rochelle was also the first Black girl main character I saw in a horror film growing up, and a lot of her personal experiences in the film mirror my own. You can read a bit about that in my Hear Us Scream anthology essay!
How do your friends and family feel about your horror obsession?
I have been lucky enough to bond with my friends and family over horror. Most of them love it or at least have an appreciation for it. I do have a few friends and family members who are not horror fans, but even they are supportive of my passion for the genre. I'm so grateful for all of them.
When did you fall head over heels in love with the horror genre?
I fell in love with horror when I was only about five years old. It's always been a big part of my life and I'm so glad I got to grow up with a love for spooky things!
Do you have any Halloween traditions?
Every Halloween season I go to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood with family and friends. My sister and I also recently started a new tradition where we invite friends over for a Halloween cake decorating contest, which is always fun. Then, on October 31st, I usually dress up, take photos, and end the night with my yearly viewing of Trick 'r Treat (2007) while devouring some Halloween treats.
If you could go back in time and experience the midnight premiere of any horror movie, what would you choose?
I think I would have to go back and watch John Carpenter's Halloween. I have seen both Halloween (2007) and Halloween (2018) in theaters on opening night and they were both such exciting and memorable experiences. I can only imagine how iconic the premiere of the original classic would have been.
What's the spookiest place you've ever visited?
The only spooky places you'll catch me at are Halloween and Horror-themed shops, museums, and events. One of the spookiest I've been to is probably Knott's Scary Farm. Walking through heavy fog in the darkness and having scare actors jump out in front of you is always super terrifying!