codes & conventions of the thriller genre

1. Codes and Conventions:
Thriller

2. Sub Genres
Action Thriller
Psychological Thriller
Crime Thriller
Spy Thriller
Supernatural Thriller
Mystery Thriller

3. Cinematography and
Editing
Quick cuts in action
sequences
Prolonged shots to build
tension
Consistent use of close ups
Antagonist will have shots
specifically aimed at
concealing identity
Low 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

4. Sound
Soundtrack 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 convey
Here is a video of Christopher
Nolan discussing the
importance of the soundtrack
in his film ‘Interstellar’
Interstellar Soundtrack

5. Common Characters
Usually 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.

6. Examples of Thriller Films