Codes and Conventions of Thriller Films

Most Thriller films made follow these codes and conventions:

• Low key lighting and shaddows - Shaddows are closely related with low key lighting. They are used to represent the inner darkness within beings, and can also add to tension and eeriness.
• Obstuctive editing (Black and white editing, montage editing) - Quick shots and obstructive editing are used frequently in Thriller films to accentuate the feelings of suspense and tension (often used in the more 'thrilling' scenes of the film).
• Multiple different camera angles
• Sharp, tense music
• Disorientation of time and space

The obvious codes and conventions used in thriller films are to do with the use of sound and editing. Quick cuts and quick transactions take a regular role in most thriller and are accompanied by fast paced music. Then bringing darker lighting into the equation creates a sense of curiosity and suspense for the audience. There are different elements of thriller films that audiences will expect to visually see. Such things could be the use of shadows, staircases and mirrors. However, it is not the same for all thriller films, 'Phonebooth' doesn't use dark lighting, mirrors or staircases. The director (Joel Schumacher), uses just the voice of the terrorist to create the suspense. The fact that the audience don't see the killer till right at the end would make the audience feel on edge and unerved. This proves that not all films in a certain genre need to follow all the codes and conventions, and can be made without other elements that give a similar effect. However, in the production of my trailer I will try to follow as many of the codes and conventions as possible, I believe this will create the best outcome for my trailer.