Thriller Conventions - Kyle Quadra

The main aim of a Thriller film is to keep the audience on the edge of their seats, by using dangerous and thrilling scenarios that are fast paced and action packed to create suspense and fear. Thriller Films feature a lead Protagonist and a main Antagonist in a narrative where the Antagonist poses a threat, to which only the Protagonist can fight against and ultimately win.

This genre heavily relies on sound and the work done in editing. It is important that the editors timing is spot-on; with quick-cutting and fast moving clips to create a hasty pace which makes the audience feel a sense of urgency. The sound and editing would also help build up anticipation and grow suspense. Lighting and shadows are emphasised in thrillers as it creates eerie atmospheres in scenes and adds to the anticipation and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film usually engages with the audience and to play with their mind.

Examples of these thriller films would include; The Dark Knight Rises (Nolan, 2012), The Untouchables (De Palma, 1987) and The Silence of the Lambs (Demme, 1991).

In The Dark Knight Rises (Nolan, 2012) the protagonist; Batman/ Bruce Wayne is faced by the threat of the psychotic antagonist; Bane who threatens to ultimately destroy the city of Gotham. The film is packet full with action scenes which range from jumping out of exploding planes to combat street fight scenes between criminals and the authorities. Quick cutting, diegetic sound of explosions and the non diegetic sound of a dramatic soundtrack help create an edgy and thrilling narrative.