Conventions Of A Thriller

 

Mystery/Enigma

 

 

Mystery in a thriller is an important aspect as it creates tension and keeps the audience in suspense, meaning they will be kept interested and asking questions as to what will occur next.

 

Suspense

 

 

Suspense is a much needed aspect in the thriller genre, as it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats in anticipation of what will happen next. Suspense in many thrillers is created, or enhanced, through the use of an enigma or mystery in the plot.

 

Low Key Lighting

 

 

Low key lighting is important in thrillers, due to the fact that it reveals very little about people or scenes, adding to the mystery of the storyline. Low key lighting is a needed aspect for many, if not all, thrillers.

 

Shadows

 

 

Shadows are commonly used in thrillers to create suspense and to add to the current enigma of the storyline. Shadows can also be interpreted as being paranormal, which can add a slight feeling or anticipation to the thriller, making the story more interesting and captivating.

 

Suspenseful Music

 

 

suspenseful music is a key element in thrillers as is able to change the mood and atmosphere in an instance. It can be used to build suspension, to keep the audience captivated and interested throughout.

 

Diegetic Sounds Of Breathing

 

 

Diegetic breathing is very common in horrors, especially when used by an unknown person. It is able to create a tension in the atmosphere which adds to the current suspense, in order to keep the viewer interested.

 

Isolated Settings

 

 

Isolated Setting are often used in thrillers to portray the protagonist as being entirely alone. Isolated settings cause the viewer to feel uneasy about the situation as the environment is not local to civilisation, meaning no public services can help the protagonist. It also allows for more suspense since the environment is never fully explored, so anything could happen at any given point in time.