2. In this presentation I'll explore the
codes and conventions that make this
genre so intriguing, touch upon its
subgenres, and provide examples of
films that exemplify these elements...
INTRODUCTION
3. Psychological thrillers are a subgenre of
thriller films that focus on the psychological
aspects of suspense and tension.
They often revolve around the human mind,
featuring intricate plots, complex characters,
and a sense of psychological unease.
These films aim to keep the audience on the
edge of their seats, stimulating their intellect
and emotions.
Defining Psychological
Thrillers:
4. The protagonist often grapples with internal conflicts, past traumas, or psychological disorders.
Example: In "Black Swan" (2010), Natalie Portman's character undergoes a psychological breakdown
as she pursues perfection in ballet.
Psychological thrillers frequently blur the lines between reality and imagination.
Example: "Shutter Island" (2010) directed by Martin Scorsese, keeps the audience guessing about
the true nature of events on an isolated mental institution.
Narrators or characters with questionable credibility are common.
Example: "Gone Girl" (2014) features a narrative with shifting perspectives that challenge the
audience's trust in the characters.
The use of eerie music and sound effects heightens tension.
Example: In "The Sixth Sense" (1999), the soundtrack creates an unsettling atmosphere that
enhances the film's eerie mood.
A. Protagonist's Mental State
B. Ambiguous Reality
C. Unreliable Narrators
D. Suspenseful Soundscapes
KEYCODESANDCONVENTIONS
5. SUBGENRES
OF
PSYCHOLOGICAL
THRILLERS
These movies challenge the audience's perception of reality.
Example: "Inception" (2010) directed by Christopher Nolan, explores the
manipulation of dreams and reality.
B. Mind-Bending Thrillers
These films often explore themes of conspiracy, surveillance, and distrust.
Example: "Enemy of the State" (1998) starring Will Smith deals with government
surveillance and paranoia.
A. Paranoid Thrillers
01
02
03
Combining psychological elements with the supernatural, these films induce fear
through the unknown.
Example: "The Others" (2001) featuring Nicole Kidman involves a mother and her
children experiencing strange occurrences in their haunted home.
C. Supernatural Thrillers
6. Dark and moody cinematography is a common
trait, emphasizing the psychological darkness of
the story.
Example: "Se7en" (1995) directed by David
Fincher uses a grim visual style to complement
its disturbing narrative.
VISUALSTYLE
7. Motivations in psychological thrillers are often
complex and morally ambiguous.
Example: "Zodiac" (2007) focuses on the obsession
of individuals trying to catch a serial killer, blurring
the line between right and wrong.
CHARACTERMOTIVATIONS
8. In summary, psychological thrillers
captivate audiences with their intricate
narratives, blurred realities, and complex
characters.
Subgenres like paranoid, mind-bending,
and supernatural thrillers add diversity to
the genre.
These conventions, along with the
examples provided, showcase the enduring
appeal of psychological thrillers in the
world of cinema.
CONCLUSION
