The Hitcher (1986) is a horror-thriller movie directed by Robert Harmon and starring Rutger Hauer as the mysterious hitchhiker John Ryder. It follows two college students, Jim and Grace, as they take a road trip through the desert of New Mexico, and pick up a hitchhiker who turns out to be a psychopathic killer, creating a terrifying and suspenseful chase. The Hitcher was a commercial success and has since become a cult classic. It has been praised for its excellent cinematography, thrilling score, and suspenseful plot.The Hitcher is a prime example of a horror-thriller movie. It is intense, atmospheric, and utilizes suspenseful action sequences and a thrilling score to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. However, there are several elements that make The Hitcher stand out from other horror-thriller movies. Firstly, the film has a unique narrative structure, which is enhanced by the use of flashbacks and dream sequences. This adds an extra layer of suspense and tension to the story, as the audience is left wondering how the events of the past will affect the events of the present. Additionally, The Hitcher is structured in a way that allows for both characterization and suspense. The characters are developed throughout the movie, and their actions and motivations are fully fleshed out. This allows viewers to connect with them on a deeper level and makes the suspenseful moments even more intense.The Hitcher also stands out from other horror-thriller movies due to its excellent cinematography. The film utilizes a wide range of camera angles, from close-ups to wide shots, and the use of lighting creates a starkly ominous atmosphere. The lighting is used to great effect throughout the movie, from the dim, eerie lighting of the desert to the starkly lit interiors of the car. This creates tension and keeps viewers engaged throughout.The Hitcher also utilizes a highly effective score to enhance the mood of the movie. The music is constantly changing, from ominously slow and quiet to fast-paced and intense. This helps to build tension and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The score is also used to provide an emotional connection to the characters, as it helps to convey their feelings and motivations.The Hitcher has had a lasting impact on the horror-thriller genre. It has influenced many modern horror films, such as The Strangers (2008) and You’re Next (2011). These films utilize many of the same techniques and themes as The Hitcher, such as intense atmosphere, suspenseful action sequences, and effective score. Additionally, The Hitcher has been credited with inspiring a new wave of horror-thriller movies, which focus on the “slasher” subgenre. These movies feature villains who are often masked, and they are often violent and gory.Overall, The Hitcher is an excellent example of a horror-thriller movie. Its intense atmosphere, suspenseful action sequences, and effective score make it a classic. It has had a lasting impact on the horror-thriller genre, and it has influenced many modern horror films. The Hitcher is a perfect example of how a simple story can be elevated to a suspenseful, thrilling experience.