Meaning: The quote "The modern horror audience is wise to our tricks this lets it in on the gag." by Robert Englund, actor best known for his role as Freddy Krueger in the "A Nightmare on Elm Street" film series, speaks to the evolving nature of horror entertainment and the changing expectations of its audience. Englund's statement acknowledges that today's viewers are more savvy and discerning when it comes to horror content, and this awareness influences the way horror films and TV shows are crafted and received.

In the early days of horror cinema, filmmakers relied on certain tropes and techniques to elicit fear and suspense from their audiences. These included jump scares, ominous music, and predictable plot twists. However, as the genre has evolved, so too have the expectations of the audience. Modern viewers have become familiar with these traditional horror devices and are often able to anticipate them before they occur. This level of familiarity with the genre's conventions has led to a more self-aware and critical audience that is "wise to our tricks," as Englund puts it.

As a result, contemporary horror creators are challenged to find new ways to engage and thrill their audience. The quote implies that the audience's awareness of the genre's tropes has forced filmmakers and writers to be more inventive and creative in their approach. Rather than relying on tired clichés, they must strive to subvert expectations and surprise their viewers in order to truly scare and captivate them.

One way in which this shift in audience awareness has manifested is through the rise of meta-horror, a subgenre that deliberately plays with and deconstructs traditional horror conventions. Films like "Scream" and "Cabin in the Woods" acknowledge and even parody the genre's tropes, effectively "letting [the audience] in on the gag." By doing so, these movies engage with the audience on a more self-referential level, acknowledging the audience's familiarity with horror tropes and using that awareness to craft a more sophisticated and layered viewing experience.

Furthermore, the quote also suggests that the modern horror audience is more discerning and demanding when it comes to the quality of horror content. With the proliferation of streaming platforms and access to a wide range of horror media, viewers have more options than ever before. As a result, creators are under pressure to deliver fresh, original, and high-quality horror experiences that can still surprise and terrify their audience. This has led to an increase in innovative storytelling, diverse representation, and more complex character development within the genre.

In conclusion, Robert Englund's quote encapsulates the changing dynamics between horror creators and their audience. The modern horror audience's awareness of the genre's tricks has prompted a shift in how horror content is crafted and consumed. As viewers become more discerning and sophisticated, horror creators are challenged to find new ways to engage and terrify their audience. This has led to the emergence of meta-horror and a greater emphasis on originality and quality within the genre. Ultimately, the quote reflects the ongoing evolution of horror entertainment and the need for creators to adapt to the changing expectations of their audience.