When watching horror movies, I've noticed some tropes appear repeatedly, which can either make the genre feel familiar or unintentionally problematic. The term "shadow daddies" refers to mysterious or absent father figures whose presence looms large, influencing character motivations and fears. This trope often underlines themes of abandonment or authority, adding psychological depth to the horror. The dislike or critique of "blond MMC" (main male characters), while a bit niche, highlights how character design and stereotypical portrayals can affect audience connection and narrative diversity. Female leads who are tiny or frail, particularly around 5'2", often feel vulnerable, creating tension and emphasizing survival themes, though it risks reinforcing stereotypes about physical weakness. "Fridging" is a well-known criticism where female characters are harmed or killed to further male characters’ stories, a trope that has sparked discussion around character agency and narrative fairness. Lastly, male-written fantasies within horror sometimes include problematic portrayals of sexual assault, which can be triggering or perpetuate harmful stereotypes if not handled sensitively. Exploring these tropes from a personal perspective helps me appreciate the genre's storytelling while critically assessing what can be improved for more respectful and nuanced portrayals. Horror movies have a unique power to reflect societal fears, but they must balance this with responsible storytelling to avoid reinforcing harmful clichés.