A thriller film aims to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat with suspense. It typically has an exciting plot involving crime, spying, or mystery that builds tension throughout. The climax is stressful as the main problem reaches resolution. Common conventions include close-ups, suspense, uncertainty, settings that create isolation, complex narratives, and lighting/camera techniques that build a tense atmosphere. Music and editing also ramp up tension in thriller trailers.

1. Definition of thriller:
A thriller film always has an exciting plot this could be typically involving crime,
spying, cars, an escape, a mission, mystery or even psychological thriller. The aim
of a thriller movie is to keep the viewer alert and on the edge of their seat with
suspense. The tension with the main problem is built on throughout the film and
leads to a stressful climax.
Thriller conventions:
• Close ups
• Suspense/tension/uncertainty
• Suggestion of the film genre
• Long shots-to set the scene
• Low levels of framing
• High angles at certain points- to show those in powerful positions
• Keep the viewer captivated
• Strong enigma codes-to keep the audience questioning
• Changes between low key and high lighting create a tense sensation when
needed
• A complex narrative structure
• Extraordinary events happening in ordinary situations-This will enable the
audience to relate to the situation, and therefore the effect will be stronger.
• Themes of identity-This is used so the audience can keep tabs on each
character, who they are, and why they’re there. It also helps us identify the
protagonist and antagonist

2. Music goes along with the
action in the trailer, and builds
up tension and the story picks
The setting usually takes place up.
at night time or in very
isolated areas, creating the
sense if isolation and no
escape. Characters usually
used in thriller
films are adults
Lighting is often dark
and lots of shadows Genre signifiers of a thriller trailer
are shown.
Rapid editing to
create a sense of
panic and a
Complex narrative sense of thriller.
structure
Quick cuts
Camera angles
constantly change.