The Jumpy Horror of Other Mommy

Fall’s jumpy new film, Other Mommy, hits theaters this Friday. This supernatural psychological horror film, adapted from Josh Malerman’s novel Incidents Around the House, tells the story of an 8-year-old girl named Bela, who starts seeing a sinister version of her mother in her home, dubbed “Other Mommy.” Jessica Chastain portrays both the mother and her eerie double.

Packed with jump scares, many audience members were left terrified after watching the trailer before The Odyssey in July. While the film promises to deliver a frightening experience, it also evokes a sense of dread that may linger long after the credits roll.

The Science of Jump Scares

Jump scares are a classic horror technique designed to surprise audiences. One of the earliest examples dates back to the 1942 film Cat People. According to director Rob Savage, Other Mommy contains around 50 scares, each meticulously crafted to provoke a genuine reaction. The anticipation and neurochemical responses—like heightened adrenaline—make these moments unforgettable, even for seasoned horror fans.

Psychological Reactions

Psychologist Coltan Scrivner indicates that audiences typically respond to jump scares with a jolt, racing hearts, and widened eyes. Even when viewers predict a scare, the emotional and physiological responses can be uncontrollable. Laughter often follows these scares, a reflection of relief, signaling that no real danger exists.

Motivation to Watch Horror

Audiences are drawn to horror films for the emotional payoff. According to psychologist Pamela Rutledge, the resolution of conflict in horror films leads to a release of dopamine, heightening the viewer’s enjoyment. Conversely, ambiguous endings can leave viewers feeling unsettled, as unresolved threats linger in their minds.

Impact on Body and Mind

Horror films can affect viewers physically and psychologically, producing reactions ranging from goosebumps to trembling. Fans of the genre are often sensation-seekers, thriving on the thrill that horror films provide. This tendency peaks during the teen years and early adulthood, as reflected in polls showing younger audiences enjoy horror more than older generations.

What Makes Other Mommy Unique?

Other Mommy strikes a particularly uncomfortable chord by presenting a mother figure—a longstanding symbol of safety—as the source of fear. This inversion of trust influences viewers, compelling them to experience the film through the eyes of Bela, amplifying the tension and emotional stakes.

Ultimately, Other Mommy not only entertains but also challenges viewers to confront their fears of what should be safe, leaving them flinching at ordinary sounds in their own homes long after the film is over.