Which of the following stylistic traits best describe the horror film?

A) high-contrast lighting (due to a lack of fill and backlights)
B) three-point lighting, ensuring evenly lit subjects
C) realistic mise-en-scene
D) iconography like the desert, horses, and the settlement

High-contrast lighting is a common stylistic trait in horror films, as it creates a sense of unease and tension through the use of shadows and darkness. This is often used to obscure or hide the killer or monster, making them appear even more frightening. The other options do not necessarily apply to horror films - three-point lighting is more commonly used in traditional Hollywood films, realistic mise-en-scene can vary depending on the type of horror film, and iconography like the desert, horses, and settlement are more specific to Westerns or other genres.