HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Horror films have become the most popular movie genre in Hawaiʻi. It's a trend that underscores the genre's broad appeal in the state. According to a recent study, horror generates an average of 170 Google searches per 100,000 people each month in Hawaiʻi. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You This makes it the most popular genre in the state, ahead of comedy (109 searches) and action (83 searches). This suggests that Hawaiʻi audiences are especially drawn to the chilling and suspenseful narratives that horror offers, a trend that aligns with broader national patterns, where horror films are the most searched genre across the U.S. “Film genre popularity is typically shaped by a combination of cultural trends, audience preferences and societal shifts," said a spokesperson for the study. "For example, rom-coms were extremely popular throughout the ‘90s and early-to-mid-'00s but experienced a major slump before the recent resurgence. On the other hand, movie musicals were popular in the late ‘00s and early 2010s but have declined in popularity in recent years." This overwhelming popularity speaks to Hawaiʻi’s unique relationship with horror which is amplified by the region's vivid history, cultural legends and supernatural undertones. Horror’s popularity in Hawaiʻi can be seen as more than just a film genre. It taps into the rich cultural landscape of the islands where local myths, legends and ghost stories resonate with audiences. From tales of vengeful spirits to ancient rituals, these stories echo the eerie allure of horror films. The themes explored in these films often mirror societal fears and provide a space to confront uncomfortable truths. Whether through supernatural thrillers or psychological horrors, Hawaiʻi audiences seem to gravitate toward films that provoke, disturb and captivate. “Horror films tend to have more timeless appeal because they often depict a manifestation of enduring societal fears, from supernatural threats to brutal violence to psychological horror, allowing them to stay relevant across generations and time periods. Horror also tends to have a cult following with many people tuning into every new release," revealed the spokesperson. "Thriller films may have more longevity due to their often fast-paced nature, shock factor, and intriguing suspense that appeals to a variety of audiences." In addition to the popularity of horror films, Hawaiʻi has seen the rise of unique, locally-driven events that celebrate the genre. To find out more about this horror trend amongst residents, KHON2.com caught up with the creator of Honolulu Horror Nights (HHN), an event founded by Steven Hobaica that blends horror, queer pride and community-building into a one-of-a-kind experience. Hobaica’s vision was to create a space where fans of horror and the queer community could come together, and his efforts have turned HHN into a cultural touchstone in Hawaiʻi's horror scene. “It started as a grassroots effort,” Hobaica told KHON2 News, reflecting on the humble beginnings of the event. “I wanted to create a space for queer people and horror lovers on the island to appreciate the genre in a safe space and also be able to build community.” What began as a small gathering has grown into a much-anticipated celebration, featuring horror screenings, local performances, trivia, and discussions on films that challenge societal norms. The event’s success is indicative of a larger trend in Hawaiʻi: horror’s ability to foster community, spark creativity and provide a platform for alternative cultural expressions. At HHN, horror isn’t just about watching films; it’s a means of building a collective space for diverse identities, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. This inclusive approach to horror has made HHN a critical part of Hawaiʻi’s cultural landscape. Horror films have long had a complicated relationship with queerness. As Hobaica explained, the genre’s portrayal of outsiders, transgressive behavior and societal fears aligns with the struggles faced by queer individuals. “Horror has always had a relationship with queer people,” Hobaica said. “The genre has always had themes of outsiders and of people living on the margins of society.” Through events like Honolulu Horror Nights, Hobaica has created an environment where audiences can explore the unsettling, the grotesque and the taboo all while celebrating their identity in a supportive and inclusive space. “Horror has always been about pushing boundaries, challenging societal norms,” Hobaica explained. The genre often highlights themes of transgression, defiance and the marginalization of characters who stand outside societal expectations. This niche makes it a natural home for many audiences who have had to carve out their own space in a world that often marginalizes them. Since its inception, HHN has grown exponentially; and Hobaica has worked hard to expand its reach. “Having partners like HIFF helps elevate the local horror scene,” Hobaica explained as he emphasized the value of collaborative efforts in bringing diverse films and voices to a wider audience. The growing popularity of horror in Hawaiʻi, is evidenced by the state’s top-ranking search volume and the success of Honolulu Horror Nights. The study shows us what we are seeing reflected in the genre’s deep connection to local culture and identity. It’s a genre that allows people to confront their fears, embrace the darker side of life and come together in shared experiences of suspense and thrill. Hawaiʻi’s love for horror has extended beyond movie screenings into immersive experiences that celebrate both the genre and local cultural values. Events like HHN offer a unique blend of entertainment, social advocacy and cultural exploration with the intention of positioning horror as not just a form of fear but also a means of expression and empowerment. For Hobaica, it’s about creating space for marginalized voices and offering a platform where people can enjoy horror while connecting with their identity. “It’s about creating something that resonates with people who feel like they don’t always have a place,” he explained. Ultimately, Hawaiʻi’s horror scene demonstrates how a genre often rooted in fear can be transformed into a force for unity, pride and creativity. You can click here to learn more about HNN and here to read more about the study. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 Whether through films, events or community engagement, horror continues to thrive in Hawaiʻi as it offers a space for locals to confront the unknown while embracing their unique identities.