EN
This study deals with the genrification process on the example of the Slovak feature horror films of the last two decades. The text is based on the semantic-syntactic- -pragmatic approach of the genre theorist Rick Altman. The article thus differs from the previous studies about Slovak genre creations because these focused on the pre-revolutionary period and the creators associated with it (Juraj Herz, Jan Švankmajer), neglected aesthetic analysis in favour of a pragmatic one, and paid attention only to academically recognized genres (social and historical drama). This study analyses the non-textual level (promotion, reception) and the texts (semantic genre elements, syntax) of six selected works – Nič nekrváca večne (Nothing Bleeds Forever), Socialistický Zombi Mord (Socialist Zombie Massacre), Spiknutie (The Conspiracy), Zlo (Evil), Attonitas, Trhlina (The Rift). The analyses show that, through a phase of peculiar adjectives, and despite its hybridization, horror has become a well-established category, recognized by various groups of people. Despite its solid position, however, it remains a marginal genre due to its production, distribution, and aesthetic exclusivity.