Horror Movies Too Dark? André Øvredal Talks Lighting & 'Passenger' [Exclusive] (2026)

Let's talk about a topic that's been haunting the film industry for far too long: the darkness in horror movies. It's a phenomenon that's not just limited to the horror genre, but it's certainly a prevalent issue that needs addressing. And it seems like André Øvredal, the director of the upcoming 'Passenger', is on a mission to shed some light on this matter.

Øvredal, in an exclusive interview, shared his thoughts on the trend of horror films being too dark. He expressed his agreement with the observation, stating that it's something he actively tries to avoid. His reasoning? Well, it's quite simple - he wants viewers to actually see what's happening on screen. Imagine sitting through a movie, straining your eyes to make out the details, only to be left frustrated and annoyed. That's not the cinematic experience anyone desires.

The Challenge of Lighting

When it comes to lighting a scene, Øvredal emphasizes the importance of having a key light source that provides a normal exposure level. It's a delicate balance, especially in horror films where darkness is often used to build suspense. However, as he points out, there needs to be a light source that guides the viewer's eye, allowing them to make sense of the scene.

The 'Passenger' trailer, with its spine-chilling jump-scare, showcases this challenge. The film follows a couple on a road trip, and with plenty of night driving scenes, the filmmakers had their work cut out for them. Øvredal's approach? Using headlights and dashboard glows to illuminate the characters, creating a sense of dread while maintaining visibility.

A Broader Issue

This issue of darkness isn't exclusive to horror movies. It's a trend that has permeated the industry, with many films and TV shows adopting a darker aesthetic. Some attribute this to the advent of digital technology, but the reasons are multifaceted and complex. Øvredal's comments highlight a growing concern among viewers and filmmakers alike.

The Importance of Practical Lighting

In his interview, Øvredal mentioned the use of practical lighting, especially in the desolate road scenes. Practical lighting refers to actual light sources within the scene, like a lamp or a candle, as opposed to artificial lighting added in post-production. This attention to detail is crucial, as it ensures the lighting feels natural and enhances the viewer's immersion.

The Trailer vs. The Final Product

It's important to note that trailers often undergo different color grading processes than the final film. This can sometimes lead to a discrepancy between the trailer's appearance and the actual movie. So, while the 'Passenger' trailer might not seem like a beacon of brightness, we can't judge the final product just yet.

A Growing Awareness

What's encouraging is that Øvredal isn't alone in his concerns. Other filmmakers and studies have also pointed out this issue. For instance, the 'Harry Potter' TV series has faced criticism for its desaturated look. This growing awareness among directors and the industry as a whole is a step in the right direction.

A Bright Future for Cinema?

While it's unclear if we'll see a sudden shift towards brighter films, Øvredal's comments give us hope. His attention to detail and focus on practical lighting are a testament to his craft. And with 'Passenger' set to release in 2026, we can look forward to a potentially well-lit horror experience. So, will 'Passenger' be a beacon of light in the horror genre? Only time will tell, but it's a journey I, for one, am excited to embark on.