Symbolic Meanings of Ritual Objects in Thai and Chinese Horror Films

Abstract

The article examines the symbolic meanings of ritual objects in Thai and Chinese horror films, focusing on their representation of each nation’s cultural and religious contexts, as well as the role of material culture in spiritual practices, using Cultural Relativism and Comparative Studies Theory as frameworks. The study explores six films—three from Thailand and three from China—and reveals that Thai films emphasize Buddhist practices, while Chinese films reflect influences from Confucianism, Taoism, Mahayana Buddhism, and folk beliefs. The study highlights similarities and differences in these representations, offering a foundation for further study on ritual objects in film.