The use of children in horror films...

THE EVIL:

Children are used a huge amount as the evil character in films as they are seen to be innocent, pure, trustworthy, less intelligent and sweet they are unexpected and cause great twists and shocks throughout  a story line.

Common films where the 'bad' character is the child are:

• The Ring (2002)
• The Grudge (2004)
• A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)
• The Shining (1980)
• The Exorcist (1973)
• The Omen (2006)
• The Orphanage (2007)
• Case 39 (2009)

THE VICTIM:

As well as using the kids for bad to create effect and drama, using them as the vulnerable also produces huge amounts of shock and tension as it is seen as a 'rule' in films to torture the children and make them suffer but never have it result in death, although many films like to break the rule to create edge and shock for the audience.

Films that have used children and teenagers as victims are:

• When a Stranger Calls (2006)
• Hostel (2005)
• Cabin in the Woods (2011)
• Hunger Games (2012)
• A Serbian Film (2010)
• Paranormal Activity (2007)
• Sixth Sense (1999)
• Never take Candy from a Stranger (1960)