“What’s So Funny?”: The Odd Trend of Moviegoers Laughing at Women’s Pleasure in Horror Films

Recent horror films like Ti West’s prequel *Pearl* and Robert Eggers’ reimagining of *Nosferatu* sparked intense discussions upon their release in 2022 and 2024, respectively. While both are celebrated for their artistic merits, audiences also found themselves amused during pivotal, sexually charged scenes featuring these films’ powerful female leads. This phenomenon reveals a deeper dialogue about societal views on women’s sexuality.

Spoilers for *Pearl* and *Nosferatu* ahead!

Reactions to Unconventional Horror Scenes

The uproar on social media following the release of *Nosferatu* is unforgettable, especially considering the laughter that erupted during Ellen’s intimate moments—characterized by unsettling visual cues of her climax as Count Orlok lurked nearby. Similarly, *Pearl* drew chuckles during a scene where the protagonist rode a scarecrow, envisioning a romantic connection with a local projectionist. The memes proclaiming “I’m married!”added a layer of comedy, prompting the question: why is women’s desire so often a source of laughter?

Viewing these reactions through a societal lens uncovers a contradiction. In a world saturated with sexual imagery, authenticity in women’s experiences of sexuality remains largely unaddressed, leading to discomfort and, paradoxically, amusement in such raw portrayals. The laughter isn’t merely a response to shock; it stems from an ingrained cultural reluctance to engage openly with women’s sexual realities.

Exploring the Taboo

This commentary isn’t aimed at criticizing theater behavior—cell phone usage during films aside! More importantly, it calls for a broader conversation about sexuality, especially the female experience. It’s essential to dismantle the taboos surrounding women’s sexual pleasure as reflected in recent horror films, which challenge conventional narratives and societal norms.

Comedy and Horror as Catalysts

In a media landscape rife with sexualized content, discussions about women’s pleasure remain sparse. Comedy and horror serve as unconventional yet effective platforms for exploring the realities of female sexual experiences. Notably, Jenny Slate discusses masturbation without shame in both her stand-up routine and her memoir, *Little Weirds*.Her willingness to blend vulnerability with humor resonates deeply, revealing the relatability of women’s often-ignored desires.

Furthermore, film comedies such as *Booksmart* and *Bottoms* have embraced themes of self-exploration, making light-hearted yet significant references to women’s sexual agency. Such representations could break down barriers, normalizing conversations around masturbation and sexual autonomy.

Context Matters

Despite the playful approach to sexuality, there exists an uncomfortable reality; women continue to navigate societal pressures regarding their bodies and desires. The interplay between horror and comedy often addresses this discomfort, particularly given the ongoing battle for women’s reproductive rights and bodily autonomy in many regions across the globe.

In viewing Ellen’s plight in *Nosferatu*, we see a protagonist trapped in a cycle of possession and sexual metaphor, ultimately highlighting the shame still attached to female sexual expression. The film’s climax resonates with audiences, either as a haunting reminder of societal constraints or as a source of uncomfortable humor.

The Relatability of Female Desire

Similarly, Pearl’s encounter with her scarecrow reflects a longing for connection amidst isolation, particularly poignant in the context of pandemic-era cinema. Her desperate actions raise probing questions about loneliness and the validity of female sexual needs during trying times. The stark contrast between societal shame and the humor derived from her actions underscores the struggle women face regarding their sexual identities.

Authentic portrayals of women’s sexual experiences challenge conventional depictions of intimacy, often leaving audiences both amused and perplexed. Laughter in response to these depictions shouldn’t dismiss the seriousness of the subjects addressed. Rather, it highlights an enduring issue: the internalized shame surrounding women’s sexuality. In this context, misogyny, rather than humor itself, is the real adversary that needs addressing.

As society continuously grapples with these themes, fostering open discussions regarding women’s pleasure and sexual autonomy becomes increasingly vital.

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