Friday 7 November 2014

Conventions Of A Thriller

What Is A Thriller?

A thriller is a broad genre of literature, film, gaming and television. It includes numerous, often overlapping sub-genres. Here are a few examples of  the different kind of thrillers:
 
Spy thrillers (James Bond)
Political thrillers (Argo)
Military thrillers (saving private Ryan)
Conspiracy thrillers (The insider)
Medical thrillers (Coma)
Forensic thrillers (the bone collector)
Psychological thrillers (seven)
Horror thriller (silence of the lambs)


Common Characteristics And Features

Suspense music
 
Low key lighting
Quick cuts
Shadows
 
Long corridors         

Ringing phone (no answer)

Hidden characters (shower curtain)

Close ups (not showing much of the scenery)
 
Often overlap with mystery stories but are distinguished by the structure of their plot

Thrillers often occur on a much grander scale: crimes are more serious

Standard plot elements include a sense of jeopardy.

Climax: when hero finally defeats villain, saving him and others.

Some thrillers are influenced by film noir and tragedy, the hero can get killed.

Often take place wholly or partly in exotic or dramatic settings e.g. cities, deserts, churches, airports, subways, Polar Regions, the woods or high seas.

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