Genre Research: Thriller

 Madelyn Argueta

AICE Media Studies Period 6

Thriller 

Hello, it is your favorite blogger! 

Today I did some research on the different elements that are found within the thriller genre. 

High angles often give the viewer the feeling of vulnerability and powerlessness. 

Close-up shots can show details of the character's reactions.

Tracking shots - are used to make the character look like they are being followed or watched.

Reverse shots are used to show what the character sees and their reactions in this case it would be used to build up suspense.

Long shots - can often show the atmosphere that is found in the movie whether it be scary or bustling. 

Low angle - can show how powerful and scary the bad guy is.

zoom shots - give dramatic effect and build suspense.

point of view shot - helps the audience experience what the character sees and feels.

Over-the-shoulder shot - shows what the character sees often using mirror or reflection scenes. 

Mis-en-scene 

Makeup - Smudged makeup. (often shows fear within the character) 

Prosthetic makeup - often found on the villain.

Clothing - often normal clothes but sometimes the villain will wear a costume that they often use when stalking or murdering somebody.

Setting/ Lighting - often in dark or dim places which helps with anticipation. 

Props - often weapons or an item that correlates with the main character or villain.

Sound 

Sound motif - when the killer is near the sound will play to alert the audience that the killer is near. 

Diegetic sound - can be footsteps or the sound of the weapon which lets the viewer know the killer is near. 

Non-diegetic - the transition from a soft tone to a drastic one can create suspense. 

Editing 

transitions 

cut away - often shows the character figuring out a solution to a problem. (typically the killer) 

For this research, I watched Nerve, Last Seen Alive, and Don't Worry Darling to figure out the common elements of the thriller genre and these are the common elements I analyzed.

What element of the genre do you like? 

I like the over-the-shoulder shots in the mirror and the creepy atmosphere that it often provides. I also like the anticipation that is often found in the music used like the sound motif that follows the killer or stalker. 

What elements of the genre do not appeal to you? 

I do not really like prosthetics as, depending on who does it, they can often look fake or unrealistic.