Codes and Conventions: Thriller

Sub GenresAction ThrillerPsychological ThrillerCrime ThrillerSpy ThrillerSupernatural ThrillerMystery Thriller

Cinematography and Editing

Quick cuts in action sequencesProlonged shots to build tensionConsistent use of close upsAntagonist will have shots specifically aimed at concealing identityLow key lighting and high contrast shots (shadows)Sequencing of events wont always be clear (end shown at beginning for example)Jump cuts, cross cutting, suspense building

SoundSoundtrack is one of the most important elements of a thriller, the soundtrack often sets the tone of the film and can be the make or break of a successful product.A lot of the time the sound is building suspense or emphasising a particular emotion that the director wants to conveyHere is a video of Christopher Nolan discussing the importance of the soundtrack in his film ‘Interstellar’Interstellar Soundtrack

Common CharactersUsually thriller films feature a very distinct protagonist and antagonist that the viewer can easily establish.The protagonist is usually a male that is brave, willing to bend the rules within the context, has a mysterious history and a clear mindset/goal.The antagonist, depending on the subgenre, will change in style. However there are some main aspects of an thriller antagonist such as their tendency to want to do harm to the protagonist/what he or she stands for.

Examples of Thriller Films