Thriller Genre Research

The Thriller Genre:

A thriller usually consists of a battle between the protagonist and the antagonist which is cause when there is a disruption in the equilibrium. The story then has to have a tense part of the narrative, so it builds tense moments until it hits its climax of a big event, the new-equilibrium.

Conventions Of Thrillers:
Low Key Lighting
Quick Cuts
Shadows
Tension Building Music
Different Angled Shots
Exaggerated Diegetic Sounds
Montages
Protagonist vs. Antagonist

Character Conventions:
The Protagonist (hero) reinforces the equilibrium
The Antagonist (villain) destroys the equilibrium

Cinematography Codes For Thrillers:
Close up or Extreme Close ups are used to build intensity within a moment or narrative. They are usually used to show the relationship between two characters or emotion that they may be feeling, as well as to help the audience notice and recognise certain clues to the situation. Cut away or Cut In's are used to link sequences together which is important for both the narrative and the audience. Shots of the Antagonist often remain ambiguous as they want their intentions to remain unknown, this is shown by them being cut away quickly, low key lighting or shadowing to create effect and build suspense for the audience.

Editing Conventions:
Jump Cuts are used to help the narrative progress and develop into something bigger.
Cross Cutting and Cut Away's are used to help the audience link the narrative to the story.

Sound Conventions:
Jumpy Non-Digetic, Tension building music/sound effects.

Mise En Scene:
Dark partly gothic setting
Low Key Lighting
Antagonist is typically in dark clothing where as the Protagonist is usually dressed in everyday clothing.
Make up and hair of Antagonist is oftenly warped and strange then the Protagonist normally wears everyday typical make up.
Filmstoke (usually low key lighting)