Definition & Meaning of "body horror"

What is "body horror"?

Body horror is a genre that focuses on disturbing or grotesque changes to the human body. These stories often depict transformations, mutilations, or infections that result in shocking or unsettling physical alterations. Body horror explores themes of fear and discomfort related to the human form, emphasizing the unsettling impact of these changes on individuals and their sense of identity. The genre aims to evoke a strong reaction from the audience by confronting them with unsettling images and scenarios related to the human body.