Thriller Conventions

Thriller Conventions

Camera Work
Typical shots used are establishing shots to show location, mid-shots to show characterization, close-ups to show disorientation and claustraphobic behaviour. The composition shows key props, while the framing creates the suspension. The camera movement and angles can vary for example high or low shots to show power/status. Depending on the perspective of the shot it can change the way we feel about it, eg. first person showing empathy.

Editing
Depending on the narrative it can show a complex narrative, which builds tension as the story converges. The editing can add tension eg. straight cut can build suspense and the pace. By adding flashbacks it can show key moments and also show the viewers connection to the story.

Thriller Opening Conventions
Within the first 2 minutes you need to add the drama by building tension and create an atmosphere, use of music is good for titles, name of the film, the crew and directors. It sometimes works well as an opening if you ask the viewers a question.

Sound
Sound is used to add atmosphere to the film. By using ambient sounds, music and noises it really sets the scene. A voice over creates a backstory and its better to avoid dialogue.

Mise-en-scene
For a typical thriller setting it is realisticially iscolated. The costumes don't always have to be 'scary' but are stereotypically ripped or bloody. When casting, the actors for villains are usually male, and the victims tend to be female. Props used would stereotypically be weapons such as guns or knives, and the lighting is low key, not much is shown and there are a lot of scenes which are based in the shadows.

Narrative
The start of a thriller can be part-way through the scene, which makes it disorientated. Flash backs, and even flash forwards add a certain element that draws you into the film, and they dont always have to be in chronoligcal order.

Sub-genres
-action
-crime
-psycholgical
-conspiracy
-religious
-disaster
-eco
-dystopia
-medical