Abstract

This article presents an analysis of Portuguese horror works, focusing mainly on the use of special effects for narrative strengthening while discussing the potential of digital special effects in the production of audio-visual content. The analysis, supported by the construction of a theoretical corpus based on an extensive literature review of work done by Portuguese and foreign authors, touches base with current practices and is complemented with the analysis of some recent works in the area of audio-visual production linked with the horror genre. The results of the work done allow us to consider that the progressive simplification of the access to technical tools and the functional literacy needed for audio-visual content production, including digital special effects, has created a more extensive space for exploring these solutions for storytelling and enhancing the creativity of those who want to tell engaging stories.