Conventions of a Thriller

What is a Thriller?

A thriller can be produced in the form of a film, involving an exciting plot. Typically, it will involve a crime or espionage.



Conventions:

• The narrative is usually based around a crime scene; often a murder and involves a strange storyline, which keeps the audience on their toes.
• Contains elements of mystery, action and fear, and narrative enigma.
• Often creates suspense for the audience,  with the tension increasing throughout.
• Provides the audience with an adrenaline rush in certain aspects of the scenes in order to keep them engaged.
• Often, the narrative makes the audience feel disturbed and uneasy due to the abnormal images.
• A thriller is more realistic than a horror film, and aspects from camera, sound, editing and Mise en scene all add to the verisimilitude of the narrative.
• Thrillers include protagonists and antagonists. Previously, thrillers had dominantly male protagonists, but recently both genders have been cast as protagonists.
• Protagonists will overcome challenges and obstacles throughout the narrative.