Films sharing characteristics with the 2016 horror film Lights Out typically feature a primal fear of darkness, amplified by supernatural threats that manifest primarily in the absence of light. These films often utilize jump scares, suspenseful sound design, and a focus on psychological vulnerability to create a sense of dread and unease. A common thematic element involves confronting deeply rooted anxieties and childhood traumas that are metaphorically linked to the darkness.
This subgenre taps into a fundamental human fear, making it perpetually relevant and engaging for audiences. The reliance on atmosphere and psychological tension, rather than excessive gore, allows these films to explore deeper themes of fear, family dynamics, and mental health. Historically, the association of darkness with the unknown and dangerous has been a recurring motif in storytelling, further solidifying the enduring appeal of this type of horror.