Conventions of a Thriller

As most genres, a Thriller must follow certain conventions.

Sets: A Thriller film tends to use low key lighting, this creates a dark atmosphere, and usually invokes mystery. Tight spaces within a set usually emphasize a characters mental state, and the situation that they are in. Weather is used to express emotion within in a scene, this is known as pathetic Fallacy.

Characters: Usually within a thriller film characters are dark and sinister, this adds to the mystery and dark atmosphere. Characters are often exaggerated to a specific stereo-type so it is easy for the audience to relate to the narrative. As well as a protagonist, often, it also includes an antagonist. Although there is the used of both characters, both of the characters are held back, and have shady backgrounds.

Narrative: The Narrative is usually hazy and unclear, this allows for the audience to figure out and interpret the story for themselves. As the audience does not know what is going to happen, it adds to the general ambience of the film.

Props (mise-en-scene): Usually props within a thriller include a weapon, usually a hang gun. They use a small gun within a film so it is not over the top, so it does not get confused with a blockbuster action film, and it can relate to real life. None of the objects used within a thriller usually use a lot of colour, this adds to the darkness of the film.

Dialogue: Complicated dialogue accentuates the narrative which the audience have to work out/interpret. Technical language shows how people (possibly police) are specialized in their fields.