Typical conventions in the thriller genre.

There are many typical conventions featured in many thriller films for many reasons. A thriller film consists of creating tension, suspense and shock to the audience. This is created in many different ways including camera positions, angles, movements, shots, music and lighting.

 

Alfred Hitchcock is considered one of the most highly rated film directors of all time due to understanding how to create such suspense. For example in the film "Psycho". From this clip you can see many ways of creating tension in a short period of time which has a larger impact on the audience.

 

 

• Music : Fast paced and normally orchestral.
• Silhouettes and shadows : Are what give a thriller the enigma and mystery for the audience. It creates eeriness and tension.
• Knives : Typical weapon used in thrillers. When you see a knife you immediately associate it with somebody about to get brutally killed.
• Confined spaces : This leads for the audience to feel the characters struggle and you feel chlostrophobic as a result. You really feel the characters emotion as they try to escape.
  
•  Obtrustive editing and quick shots : Accentuates the feelings of suspense and tension.



"Psycho"