Genre Conventions

Genre conventions of a thriller

So lets start off by saying what a thriller is. A thriller is a novel, play, or film with an exciting plot and storyline which usually includes a range of bad events which builds tension and suspense for the climax. 

What conventions are used in a thriller?

Some different conventions which may be used in thrillers are;

• Changes in the angles of shots - this allows us to see the characters in different ways. E.g. low angle and high angle shots may be used to show which character is more dominant in the shot or likewise who is meant to be shown as the intimidated and weak character.
• Sound - music is essential so that the audience can understand the mood of the characters and at some points it makes it easier to build tension and suspense. E.g. background music may start at a slow pace and then build up to great drama.
• Diegetic sound of breathing or footsteps - similar to the sounds. It builds tension or a sense of drama.
• Lighting - different types of lighting are important to create an atmosphere and make some scenes more frightening than others. Low key lighting may be used to create a shadow effect or a dim look which looks eerie. 
• Mirrors - used to show the reflection of ones soul and their inner self and can show the darkness of the characters.
• Editing - quick shots and obtrusive editing can accentuate tension. Black and white editing also can be used to show the shadows in depth and appears eerie and dark.

There are different types of thrillers including horror, spy, psychological and more and they may use all of these conventions or pick and choose the ones which suit their film and the plot. Most will use the different angles of shots because this can set the scene and immediately show the audience which characters are in power. However mirrors and quick shots may not always be needed unless there is a scene which needs to show a character in panic, rushing around, so not all conventions may be used.