Here, we dive into the weird worlds of cosmic horror, discuss films that define the genre onscreen, and offer tips to actors and creators looking to (love)craft their own projects.

What is cosmic horror?

At its core, cosmic horror asks the question: What if humanity is truly insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe? The genre often involves characters who seek knowledge, only to encounter creatures, concepts, or locations that are beyond human comprehension.

Why is cosmic horror scary? It erases the natural human comfort that we’re important and our lives have meaning. At the heart of every cosmic horror story is the most ancient fear of all: fear of the unknown.

These types of stories are also called eldritch horror or Lovecraftian horror—after the writer who pioneered the concept, H.P. Lovecraft. Lovecraft’s stories often involve terrors so great they defy definition, as well as a race of “Elder Gods” who view humans the way we might regard ants on the side of the road.