Thriller conventions

Narrative

·         Usually not a lot of dialogue

·         Only tends to have the main character/characters in it

·         Often in chronological order

·         Often half way through an event happening- making the audience ask question

Camera work

·         Establishing shot- show location

·         Mid shots- so the character are introduced

·         Close ups- disorientation/ claustrophobia

·         Composition-Key props

·         Framing- creates suspense

·         High angle/low angle shots- to show power and statues

·         1^st person- empathy

Editing

·         Duel narrative-  shows complex narrative and creates tension- as story converges

·         Straight cut editing- pace and tension

·         Flashback-  key moments, connections

Thriller opening

·         Drama and tension

·         Use of music

·         Titles-  name of film, actors, director, company ideas

·         Something gripping but confusing

·         One significant event

·         Create atmosphere

Sound

·         Use ambient sounds- music/ noises fade in/out- creates atmosphere

·         Voice over to create background story

·         Avoid dialogue

Mise-en-scene

·         Setting- realistic/isolated

·         Costume- realism

·         Actors- males are often protagonists/ antagonists and women – victim?

·         Props- victims

·         Lighting- low key, shadows

Sub- genres

·         Action

·         Crime

·         Psychological

·         Conspiracy

·         Dystopian

·         Medical

·         Noir

·         Gangster

·         Religious