The Revival of the Horror Genre: From Supernatural to Psychological (2000?2005) by Gregory Hammond explores the transformative period in horror cinema during the early 21st century. This insightful work delves into how the genre evolved, moving away from traditional supernatural tales and slasher flicks to embrace more psychologically complex narratives. Hammond examines the rise of "elevated horror," a subgenre that blends terror with deep emotional and social commentary, highlighting films that merged horror with psychological, existential, and cultural issues.

The book chronicles how films like The Ring, The Others, Saw, and Donnie Darko shifted the focus from external threats to the internal struggles of characters, creating new forms of fear grounded in human experience. Through a comprehensive analysis of these pivotal films, Hammond traces the genre's roots in supernatural lore and its metamorphosis into a platform for addressing contemporary anxieties about mental illness, societal breakdown, and moral ambiguity.

In addition to discussing the artistic evolution of horror, The Revival of the Horror Genre also addresses the cultural context of the era, including the impact of post-9/11 fears, the rise of digital media, and the increasing influence of global cinema. The book is an essential read for cinephiles, filmmakers, and anyone interested in understanding how horror became a more intellectually engaging and socially relevant genre in the early 21st century.