Meaning: Dave Rowntree, a musician best known as the drummer for the British band Blur, offers a unique perspective on the nature of horror films in this quote. He likens the structure of horror film episodes to a series of bad decisions made by the characters, leading to increasingly dire consequences. This view provides insight into the appeal of horror as a genre and suggests that the humor often found in horror may stem from the characters' missteps and the escalating nature of their predicaments.

Rowntree's comparison of horror film episodes to mini horror films speaks to the episodic nature of many horror narratives. Each episode or segment within a horror series can be seen as a self-contained story, often with its own set of characters and plot developments. This structure allows for a focus on building tension and creating a sense of unease as the story progresses, ultimately leading to a climactic and often terrifying conclusion. By framing these episodes as mini horror films, Rowntree highlights the self-contained and impactful nature of horror storytelling.

The idea that characters in horror films make bad decisions early on is a common theme within the genre. Whether it's investigating a strange noise in a dark basement or venturing into a forbidding forest alone, horror characters often find themselves in perilous situations due to their questionable choices. These decisions serve to propel the plot forward and create opportunities for fear and suspense to unfold. Rowntree's observation underscores the importance of character actions in driving the narrative of horror stories and setting the stage for the escalating events that follow.

Furthermore, Rowntree's assertion that things "snowball" for the characters in horror films speaks to the notion of escalating tension and conflict within these narratives. As the characters' bad decisions lead to increasingly dire consequences, the stakes are raised, and the sense of dread intensifies. This snowball effect is a fundamental aspect of many horror stories, as the initial unsettling events give way to more sinister developments, ultimately culminating in a terrifying climax. The idea of things getting "worse and worse" aligns with the traditional structure of horror narratives, where tension and fear build steadily throughout the story.

Rowntree's perspective on finding humor in the escalating misfortunes of horror film characters sheds light on the complex emotional responses elicited by the genre. While horror is primarily associated with fear and dread, it often incorporates elements of dark humor and irony. The absurdity of the characters' predicaments, combined with their ill-fated decisions, can indeed evoke a sense of dark amusement for audiences. This blend of fear and humor adds depth to the horror experience, allowing for a range of emotional reactions and contributing to the genre's enduring appeal.

In conclusion, Dave Rowntree's comparison of horror film episodes to mini horror films offers a thought-provoking exploration of the genre's narrative structure and emotional dynamics. His insights into the characters' bad decisions, the snowballing nature of their predicaments, and the humor inherent in their misfortunes provide a compelling lens through which to view the appeal of horror storytelling. By framing horror episodes as self-contained and impactful tales marked by escalating tension and dark humor, Rowntree's perspective enriches our understanding of the complexities inherent in the horror genre.