Body horror is a subgenre of horror that focuses on the grotesque transformation or mutilation of the human body. It often explores themes of identity, fear, and the fragility of the human form. This genre can evoke strong emotional reactions by depicting physical changes that challenge the boundaries of what is considered normal or acceptable.
Common elements of body horror include graphic depictions of injuries, deformities, or unnatural mutations. Notable examples can be found in films like David Cronenberg's "The Fly" and John Carpenter's "The Thing". These works often reflect societal anxieties about illness, aging, and the loss of control over one's own body.