Brand Tone

passionate, enthusiastic, inclusive, slightly irreverent, and deeply knowledgeable about the horror genre

Brand Values

• •Community: The "collective" aspect is central. They aim to provide a platform for horror fans and creators, fostering a sense of belonging. They emphasize being "by horror fans, for horror fans."
• •Creativity and Artistic Expression: They are "devoted to creating beautiful horror zines" and seek "bold artistic and narrative perspectives on the genre." They value high-quality, illustrative content.
• •Inclusivity and Diverse Perspectives: TNHC actively explores and promotes underrepresented voices and themes within horror, such as queer horror and women in horror. Their submission calls ask for pronouns.
• •Passion for Horror: A deep love and understanding of the horror genre in all its facets underpins their work. They aim to explore "what it means to be human, to survive, to evolve" through horror.
• •Intellectual Engagement: They encourage "in-depth analyses of horror films," "personality-filled opinion pieces," and exploring horror's capacity for social commentary and catharsis.
• •Independence and DIY Ethos: As an "independent DIY publisher," they champion the spirit of zine culture.

Best Practices

• •Embrace Passionate Enthusiasm: Always write from a place of genuine love and excitement for the horror genre. Use vivid, evocative language that reflects this passion.
• •Balance Intelligence with Irreverence: While showcasing deep knowledge and encouraging critical analysis, don't be afraid to inject humor, wit, and a slightly rebellious spirit. Avoid overly academic or dry language unless it's a direct quote from a specific analytical piece. Phrases like "We're all ears and wide, unblinking eyes" or "screaming into the void" capture this well.
• •Champion Inclusivity and Community: Consistently use welcoming and inclusive language. Highlight diverse voices and themes within horror. Frame calls to action (like submissions or event attendance) as invitations to join a shared experience. Acknowledge and credit contributors generously.
• •Maintain a DIY, Fan-Centric Voice: Remember the "by horror fans, for horror fans" ethos. Keep the language approachable and relatable to fellow enthusiasts, avoiding overly corporate or detached tones. Emphasize the handcrafted, "lovingly made" nature of the zines.
• •Be Visually and Thematically Consistent: While not strictly copywriting, ensure the tone of the copy aligns with the visual aesthetics (e.g., the duo-tone design of zines) and the recurring themes (like Tarot cards). This synergy reinforces the overall brand identity. The copy should feel like it belongs with the "beautifully grim" visuals and "morbid enthusiasm" noted by reviewers.

Social Perception

Customers perceive TNHC as a producer of high-quality, beautifully designed, and thought-provoking zines. The public and entities like LeftLion, Mayhem Film Festival, and BACKLIT gallery see TNHC as a significant and positive contributor to the Nottingham cultural and horror scene. They are viewed as passionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated to celebrating and exploring the horror genre, particularly its diverse and subversive elements. They are seen as a hub for the local horror community and a platform for emerging talent.

Copy Examples

• •(Instagram post for new zine launch): "The crypt doors creak open… our latest issue, [Zine Theme/Tarot Card Name], has clawed its way into the mortal realm! Packed with [mention 1-2 content types, e.g., chilling tales and stunning art] from the most fiendishly talented creators. Dare to peek inside? Link in bio to grab your copy before it vanishes into the night. #NottinghamHorror #HorrorZine #NewRelease #[RelevantHorrorTheme]"
• •(Call for submissions on Facebook): "Calling all creatures of the night! The Nottingham Horror Collective is seeking your darkest visions for our upcoming zine, '[New Theme]'. We want your insightful film critiques, your bone-chilling short stories, your beautifully grotesque artwork. We’re all ears and wide, unblinking eyes for your unique takes. Submission guidelines & how to offer your soul (uh, we mean, work) on our website. Deadline: [Date]. Let’s make something beautifully horrifying together! #HorrorCommunity #CallForSubmissions #IndiePublishing #TNHCZine"
• •(Website banner for a special edition): "Beyond the Veil: Explore [Special Edition Theme, e.g., Queer Horror] with 'The Last Closet on the Left: Vol. 2'. Courageous essays, stunning visuals. Lovingly made by and for those who enjoy punching a fist into the bloody chest of Horror cinema to pull out its still-beating queer heart. Get your copy and celebrate the deliciously dark side. #QueerHorror #HorrorZine #[SpecialInterest]"
• •(Tweet promoting an event): "Get ready to scream, Nottingham! We're dragging [Film Name] back to the big screen at @BroadwayCinema on [Date]. Join us for a night of [adjective, e.g., cult classics/chilling shorts] and horror camaraderie. We'll supply the existential dread (and maybe some popcorn). Tickets via Broadway's website. Don't be a ghoul, be there! #NottinghamEvents #HorrorScreening #TNHC"
• •(Email newsletter snippet): "Greetings, fellow horror fiends! This month, we're plunging our hands into the bloody chest of [Current Topic/Theme, e.g., Eco Horror]. Discover thought-provoking pieces on [Mention specific content, e.g., Mother Nature’s Revenge in film], meet our latest contributors, and find out how you can be part of our next terrifying creation. Click here to delve deeper... if you dare."