Wednesday 10 February 2010

Conventions Of A Thriller

It is difficult to state a clear definition of a thriller as they cross over many genres, however the single most characteristic of a thriller is the obvious one, it "thrills" the audience. The plots are scary, the characters are at great risk and the films are constructed in a manner that makes the watcher really want to know what happens next. There is no formula for a thriller, other that that most thrillers follow one of a few common narrative structures.Thrillers can be divided into countless categories, i.e., action thrillers, psychological thrillers,millitary thrillers, spy thrillers, and the list goes on. It's easier to recognise a thriller than to describe it.

Some other conventions could include:
  • Mystery to the spectator.
  • Suspense, which is key to a thriller.
  • Micro elements - musical score, use of distorted, hand-held camerawork. Adds to suspense/tension.
  • Low lighting, which adds to mystery and suspense.
  • Protagonist in the form of the main character
  • Antagonist in the form of a villain or enemy.
Examples that may "thrill" you are see below. "Scream" and "Paranormal Activity"


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