Both films directed by John Carpenter use similar techniques to build suspense and horror. In Halloween, subjective camera angles shot from the killer's point of view and a ominous soundtrack build tension as the knife-wielding killer stalks his victims. Similarly, Vampires establishes threat through preparations like arming with stakes and holy water, while also subverting expectations with an unexpected plot twist. Overall, the films show John Carpenter's trademark style of suspense through drawn-out build up and misdirecting the audience from what's to come.