Codes and convenions of the Thriller genre

Codes and convenions of the Thriller genre

1. Mise-en-scene

   • Hair and make-up
   • The location choice is important
   • Low key lighting is often used to create tension
   • The antagonist is often in a dark clothing, this enables them to creep around, in the low light. The protagonist would usually be in normal clothes

2. Conventions of a Thriller

   • Low key lighting
   • Music which builds the tension. The music creates an engaging atmosphere in a Thriller, and keeps the audience guessing.
   • Shadows

3. Editing

   • Quick cuts, this keeps the audience on edge as it increases the
   • Panning shot
   • Tracking shot

4. Sound

   • Diegetic heavy breathing, this indicates to the view/audience that the character is scare, nervous or feeling uncomfortable.
   • The music, builds tension and is an important part to any film. It helps the viewer/audience understand the mood of the character.
   • Fast paced music

5. Characters

   • The protagonist tends to be a brave male character, who is trying to restore equilibrium.
   • The antagonist usually has a hidden identity which the audience don't see until the narrative develops.